A-priori assumptions and philosophical influence of the historical-critical method according to Benedict XVI

Sławomir Zatwardnicki

Wrocław, PWT

Abstract

Benedict XVI is an adherent of use of the historical-critical method which he considers to be an obvious tool of the exegetical technique. On the other hand, Joseph Ratzinger points out that this method has its limitations and it is subject to all kinds of influence. The article focuses on Joseph Ratzinger’s (Benedict XVI’s) statements which show the involvement of the historical-critical method in an inappropriate philosophy, and it deals with a-priori assumptions made by exegetes who use this method. All of them were gathered in chapters titled: “The model of the natural sciences applied to spiritual reality”, “Positivistic hermeneutics instead of the hermeneutics of faith”, “Philosophical influence alien to the Bible”, “The enlightened mind not submitting to authorities”. German theologian and subsequent pope gave proper grounds (theological, philosophical, scientific ones) for perceiving the crisis of exegesis, the understanding of which makes it possible to look for way out of an impasse in exegesis.

Keywords:

Holy Scripture, exegesis, hermeneutics, hermeneutics of faith, historical-critical method, crisis, interpretation, Benedict XVI, Joseph Ratzinger, Church, science