PASSOVER IN CHRIST - ST. BONAVENTURE'S "ITINERARIUM" FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF KARL RAHNER'S THEOLOGY
Abstract
A cursory reading of Bonaventure and Karl Rahner reveals a certain synchronicity of thought. One can readily detect points of contact in their individual systems of thought. This dissertation explores various points of contact with several goals in mind. The exploration intends to indicate the Franciscan roots of Rahner which further identifies him with the broad spectrum of Christian thought. The study also lends credibility to assertions claiming the importance of a Franciscan vision in answer to modern theological concerns further indicating the contemporary significance of Bonaventure. Finally, the study helps one recognize not only the mystical element of the respective theological endeavors but also leads to a recognition of the mystical character of the individual personalities. By means of a theoretical commentary the two theologians are brought into dialogue with each other. Because it begins with a focus on this world, Bonaventure's Itinerarium is the most suitable of his works for the construction of a Rahnerian commentary. The Itinerarium provides the basic outline while monographs from Rahner's Theological Investigations provides material for developing the commentary. Articles by Rahner which specifically comment on Bonaventure provide both a justification and a guide for the present study. The Itinerarium conveniently breaks down into four divisions. The various levels include a consideration of God through and in nature; through and in the human person; through and in Himself. The final level considers the experience of God through and in Christ crucified. These levels provide the divisions of the study and guide the selection of materials from Rahner. An introduction details the nature of the study, including a rationale and methodology. Biographies of Bonaventure and Rahner highlight the character of their theological endeavors as well as the specific methodologies of the Itinerarium and Theological Investigations. The conclusion draws together material from the commentary with a focus on the themes of mysticism, anthropology, the Trinity and Christology.
Subject Area
Theology
Recommended Citation
BERNA, FRANCIS JAMES XAVIER, "PASSOVER IN CHRIST - ST. BONAVENTURE'S "ITINERARIUM" FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF KARL RAHNER'S THEOLOGY" (1986). ETD Collection for Fordham University. AAI8615703.
https://research.library.fordham.edu/dissertations/AAI8615703
