“Being and becoming”: a Gadamerian interreligious hermeneutic for comparative theology

Cushing, Mariah Terey (2023). “Being and becoming”: a Gadamerian interreligious hermeneutic for comparative theology. University of Birmingham. Ph.D.

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Abstract

The “new wave” of comparative theology, heavily influenced by Francis Clooney and others alike, is understanding, learning from, and engaging with other religious traditions comparatively and theologically to seek fresh theological insights that may apply to the comparative theologian. This thesis claims that the new wave of comparative theology can be strengthened by wider terms of reference by using a Gadamerian hermeneutical method that helps guide through the process of interreligious hermeneutics. This wider scope recognizes that truth is determined by the unveiling embodiment of an event or experience in which we are engaged and transformed.
This thesis summarizes philosophical hermeneutics closely associated with Hans-Georg Gadamer and leads to an application of his philosophy to comparative theology. Using various comparative moments this research explores interliturgies to demonstrate the applicability of the Gadamerian Interreligious Hermeneutical Circle. The findings from these comparative moments involve the necessity of prejudices and tradition of the interpreter, the process of dialogical participation, the engagement with reflective outcomes, and the fruitfulness of fusion of horizons. This leads to understanding comparative theology as an ontological mode of “being,” transcending a largely “textual” field into an ontological sphere and opening the horizons for better understanding of the religious Other. The perpetual rhythm of being and becoming continually influence the prejudices of the comparative theologian who seeks understanding, therefore forming and informing their “becoming.” In this way, and shown through this research, comparative theology becomes the process of “being and becoming.”

Type of Work:

Thesis (Doctorates > Ph.D.)

Award Type:

Doctorates > Ph.D.

Supervisor(s):