On Karl Barth and Asians

Actualism and Contextual Theologies

Authors

  • Francis Jr. S. SAMDAO PBTS and ERT

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54424/ajt.v38i2.112

Keywords:

actualism, contextual theologies, Karl Barth, Asians, contextualization, decolonization

Abstract

In this essay, I argue that Karl Barth (1886-1968) is a contextual theologian who can be an interlocutor in contextualization and decoloniality in Asia. While Barth is seen as antithetical to natural theology, which may imply opposition to contextual theologies, his theology is nevertheless contextual since he was fully engaged with the mood of his time while proclaiming that God turned his face toward humanity. In this article, I will draw on his concept of actualism found in his Church Dogmatics II. I contend that actualism calls us to 1) go beyond the translation approach, 2) respond to God’s revelation through contextualization and decolonization, and 3) consider God as the main subject and object in our contextual and decolonial endeavors in Asia.

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Published

2024-10-16

How to Cite

SAMDAO, F. J. S. (2024). On Karl Barth and Asians: Actualism and Contextual Theologies. Asia Journal Theology, 38(2), 170–190. https://doi.org/10.54424/ajt.v38i2.112

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Section

Articles