RECONCILIATION AS A GOAL OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM: AN ANALYSIS OF MIROSLAV VOLF ’S PERSPECTIVE Cover Image

RECONCILIEREA CA SCOP AL LIBERTĂȚII RELIGIOASE: O ANALIZĂ A PERSPECTIVEI LUI MIROSLAV VOLF
RECONCILIATION AS A GOAL OF RELIGIOUS FREEDOM: AN ANALYSIS OF MIROSLAV VOLF ’S PERSPECTIVE

Author(s): Florin Matei
Subject(s): Social Sciences, History of Church(es), Theology and Religion, Social Theory, Other Christian Denominations, Sociology of Religion, History of Religion
Published by: Editions IARSIC
Keywords: reconciliation; liberty; love; violence;

Summary/Abstract: Mirosalv Volf is a Protestant theologian who has addressed the relationship between church and society. In this paper we will examine Miroslav Volf ’s perspective on religious freedom and reconciliation as the ultimate goal in a globalised and diverse society. The author builds his vision of religious freedom on his personal experiences and his existential context, marked by ethnic and religious conflicts. He argues that in order to understand religious freedom correctly, we need to address reconciliation and inter-religious dialogue as its foundation. The article explores two philosophical models of freedom and reconciliation: the ‚oppression-liberation’ model and the ‚scapegoat’ theory. I will argue that these approaches have their limitations and can lead to the perpetuation of social problems and oppression. Volf ’s proposal is an alternative vision, stating that love and mutual respect are the fundamental values that should guide freedom and reconciliation. He emphasises the importance of a mindset of respect, embodying these values within a framework of freedom. Religious freedom, in Volf ’s view, should be promoted by the world’s religions because only in this way can reconciliation and dialogue between different religious beliefs be sustained. Love, respect and dialogue therefore play a central role in promoting reconciliation and a harmonious society in the age of globalisation. In the view shared by Miroslav Volf, this is the context in which religious freedom makes society aim for a common good.

  • Issue Year: 11/2023
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 709-722
  • Page Count: 14
  • Language: Romanian