Theologie

Theologie is the study of the nature of the divine, of God or gods, and of the beliefs, practices, and institutions of religious communities. In German-speaking contexts the term encompasses both the systematic articulation of faith within a tradition (dogmatic or doctrinal theology) and the critical, historical, and philosophical examination of religious phenomena. The discipline seeks to understand what believers claim about God, how such claims are justified, and how they influence life, ethics, worship, and community life.

Core concerns include the interpretation of sacred texts, the formulation of doctrine, and reflection on issues such as creation, revelation, salvation, and eschatology. The field uses methods drawn from philosophy, history, literary studies, and biblical and theological exegesis: exegesis, hermeneutics, historical-critical analysis, systematic and moral theology, and apologetics.

Traditionally major branches include Christian theology with its confessional and doctrinal varieties; Islamic theology (theologies such as kalam and various schools of thought within Sunni and Shiite traditions); Jewish theology (rabbinic and modern streams); Hindu and other religious theologies with diverse doctrines. The field also includes practical or pastoral theology, liturgical theology, and religious ethics.

Theologie engages with philosophy of religion, science, politics, and interreligious dialogue. It is distinct from religious studies, which tends to describe beliefs and practices without confessional commitments, whereas theology often exercises normative or confessional aims within a tradition.