Comparative Theology: Between Theology and Religious Studies

Abstract

Abstract:In the German-speaking academy there is a widespread rivalry between theology and religious studies. -Comparative Theology‖ provokes suspicions from both sides. This contribution first takes a look at the history of the rivalry, refers then to the criticism from both sides against -Comparative Theology‖ and suggests a way of positioning it between the two stools. It pleads for distinguishing between the levels of (analytical) method and (constructive) interpretation as far as possible. The comparative approach should be understood and used as a method of comparative analysis in accordance with the standards of religious studies, while theological reflection should constitute the hermeneutical frame of motivation and interpretation.

Comparative Theology and Scriptural Reasoning: A Muslim’s Approach to Interreligious Learning

“…First, contrary to Religious Studies' so-called adherence to the outsider's perspective, the new turn in the field opts for an insider's perspective. Second, as Reinhold Bernhardt argues, contrary to its statement of purpose, CT does not concretely engage with the truth question or with any evaluative judgment (Bernhardt 2012). However, many CT participants are often 5 David Burrell employs Annamarie Schimmel's neologism "inlibration" for the Qur'an as the Christian parallel of the Incarnation.…”