Abstract:

This study is an analysis of the hermeneutics of Juan Luis Segundo in order to present his notions of a new attitude in doing theology. First, according to Juan Luis Segundo, the work of interpretation offers a lens into building a critical spirit with a goal of uncovering the ideological veils of theology in order to unveil Christ himself. This is to be done through a continuous confrontation with the reality of poverty and the recognition of the role of the poor in the process of interpretation.

Second, Juan Luis Segundo is also known for his notion of the hermeneutical circle. Hermeneutics for Segundo is to build bridges of encounter between the Word and the World, between the poor and the person of Christ. The idea is that we are to reinterpret our understanding of the Word of God in consideration of our current context. For it is not through our own capacity as human beings that we are to be emancipated from these oppressive structures but it is through starting with Christ that we can hope to dream for liberation.

Last, constant and progressive hermeneutics must be considered in order to testify to the inexhaustible wealth of the Word of God. Segundo’s hermeneutical circle presents a key in understanding the capacity of hermeneutics to afford its own self-critique. In other words, this last phase is liberation theology liberating itself from being “the interpretation” in any given time. Liberation hermeneutics must transcend itself and acknowledge the last word can only be the very Word of God made flesh.

Final Defense:

The Board of Examiners is composed of:

1. Fr. Jojo Fung, S.J., Ph.D. (Principal Examiner)
2. Fr. Oliver Dy, S.J., S.T.D., Ph.D.
3. Br. Joaquin Yap, Jr., S.W., D.Phil.

Proposal Defense:

Board of Examiners:
1. Fr. Hartono Budi, S.J., Th.D. (Adviser)
2. Fr. Oliver Dy, S.J., S.T.D., Ph.D.
3. Fr. Jose Mario Francisco, S.J., S.T.L., Ph.D.