Scientia sanctitati subalternata. Świętość w teologii jako kulturze wiary według Josepha Ratzingera/Benedykta XVI

Identity of theology as scientiae fidei constitutes - beyond strictly scientific instruments - spiritual experience, which implies a close, multi-faceted relationship between theology and holiness. In contemporary theology, the relationship “theology-holiness” emphasized especially H.U. von Balthasar. Similarly, J. Ratzinger / Benedict XVI draws the methodological consequences from ecclesial experience of holiness and treats holiness as an basic meta-theological and hermeneutic category. Only holiness, understood as being in the sphere of God’s love, enables theological knowledge. Therefore, the experience of the saints is necessary reference point and criterion of correctness of all theological reflection. Theology is subordinated in this sense to the holiness (sanctitati subalternata), both in individual area (the attitude of the theologian) and ecclesial one (theology as a science rooted in the Church). Theology, understood and practiced in this way, becomes simultaneously doxology, science adoring God.