Theological Synthesis
A theological synthesis is an ordered explanation that draws conclusions from revelation, magisterial teaching, reason, and received theological tradition.
Purpose and method
Theology seeks an intelligible account of truths known by faith, their relations, and their implications. A synthesis may join biblical exegesis, patristic witness, conciliar definitions, philosophical reasoning, liturgical evidence, and the work of earlier theologians.[1]
The scholastic systems associated with Saint Thomas Aquinas or Blessed John Duns Scotus are major examples. The Church can praise, prefer, or rely upon a synthesis without making every school-specific conclusion an article of faith.[2]
Derivative authority
A theological conclusion receives weight from the truth and authority of its premises, the strength of its reasoning, its continuity with Tradition, its reception among sound theologians, and any use made of it by the Magisterium. The label therefore names a kind of reasoning, not a fixed low grade on the doctrinal scale.
Where several Catholic schools remain permitted, the common doctrine remains firm while competing explanations are identified as theological opinions. A synthesis may be highly certain without being a separate magisterial act.
References
- Back to citation Fides et ratio — Saint John Paul II on the relation of faith, reason, philosophy, and theology.
- Back to citation Donum veritatis — The ecclesial vocation and responsibilities of the Catholic theologian.