La vivencia subjetiva de la revelación cristiana. Una exploración metodológica

A new research methodology for theology is proposed, combining introspection and explicitation interviews from contemplative studies with a theological reinterpretation of decision analysis found in St. Ignatius of Loyola's rules for discernment of spirits. This approach aims to rigorously study first- and second-person experiences of subjective transformation through personal relationships with Christian revelation. The method could clarify the link between what is experienced in Christian revelation and what is thought about it, offering a novel perspective for theological work.

Study at a glance

Abstract

After a thorough and careful exploration, this article finds it plausible to incorporate a new research methodology into theological work, based on the use of introspection and explicitation interviews, which are now widely used in contemplative studies. This is also aided by a theological reinterpretation of decision analysis in the rules of discernment of spirits present in the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. The novelty of the method aims to incorporate, with methodological rigor, research on the first- and second-person experiences in the subjective transformation process that occurs through personal relationships with Christian revelation. The consequences of this new perspective could better define the relationship between «what is experienced» of Christian revelation and «what is thought» about it.