Teoloogias

Teoloogias is the Estonian term for the discipline of theology. It denotes the systematic study of the divine, religious beliefs, and the practices and institutions of faith communities. The field seeks to understand questions about God, revelation, scriptural interpretation, ethics, liturgy, and the historical development of religious traditions. Scholars in teoloogias use methods drawn from philosophy, history, linguistics, archaeology, and the social sciences to analyze beliefs and practices in their historical and cultural contexts.

Core subfields typically include biblical theology, historical theology, systematic theology, and practical theology. Related areas cover missiology, pastoral theology, ethics, liturgical studies, and interfaith dialogue. The methods vary by tradition and objective; common approaches include exegesis and hermeneutics, the historical-critical method, philosophical analysis, and comparative study across religions.

Education and career paths in teoloogias occur within university faculties of theology or religion departments. Degree programs typically include bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels, preparing graduates for ministry roles, teaching, research, or secular positions that engage with religion, ethics, and public life.

History and context of teoloogias trace ancient roots in religious scholarship and a long maturation through medieval universities, scholasticism, and the Reformation. In modern times, the field emphasizes critical inquiry, ecumenical and interreligious engagement, and the relationship between faith, society, and politics. In Estonia and other countries, teoloogias departments may operate within church-affiliated institutions or secular universities, reflecting diverse approaches to the study of religion.