Rudolf Bultmann’s Theological Hermeneutics and the Quest for Authentic Existence: A Heideggerian Analysis
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Rudolf Bultmann is a German theologian and philosopher. Rudolf Bultmann then on his early years was influenced by Martin Heidegger. Having seen Heidegger’s work, Bultmann sees existential analysis as an ally in theology. The compatibility of existentialism with the theological task is based upon Bultmann’s belief that the basic religious questions are questions of existence. The first part of this paper depicts the concept of Heidegger (Dasein) and its transition on how it influenced Bultmann’s theological hermeneutics. The second part of this paper is the introductory part of Bultmann’s concept. The third part of this paper depicts how Bultmann used existential interpretation as an ally in interpreting the New Testament and followed by the conclusion. The given chapters will answer the problem on the difficulty of attaining authentic existence brought by modernity. Given the challenges brought by modern science, the quest for a biblical life and authentic existence is difficult to attain. Man relies heavily on science rather than believing on morals taught by religion. With this being said, religion becomes separated. Therefore, the need to interpret existentially the religious message in the New Testament is important because it does not also provide solution to the challenges of attaining authenticity but it also makes religion relevant in man’s quest towards attaining authentic existence. This paper employs a phenomenological approach in determining problems and challenges brought by modernization of science. Through phenomenological approach, the need for demythologization must be employed. As a result, the need to make religion significant in today’s era would be possible. Also, this paper contributes to the ongoing debate on separation of faith and reason. Hence, the aim of this paper is to present a solution to the challenges brought by modernity through interpreting existentially the New Testament.
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