The Scriptural Reasoning Movement
Religious Studies: OCR A Level, topic 3.8.3
The Scriptural Reasoning Movement
The Scriptural Reasoning movement began in the USA as a forum for Jewish scholars to meet and discuss Jewish sacred texts.
UK Christians look to join forum
- In the mid-1990s, Christians from the UK looked to join the forum so that they could increase their own understanding of beliefs and practices within Judaism.
Purpose of the meetings
- Scriptural Reasoning has become part of the Cambridge Inter-faith Programme.
- The goal of these meetings is to present a space for religious believers to engage in debate and discussion that poses no threat to their own belief.
- It is an opportunity to develop openness and respect of other faiths.
Format of the forums
- Believers from the Christian, Muslim and Jewish faiths meet and discuss passages from sacred texts.
- These passages address themes such as creation, modesty and morality.
- In the meetings, participants discuss passages from their holy text and how these passages have shaped their beliefs and practices. The participants discuss how the ideas in the text can be applied to contemporary society.
Aim: better understanding
- All participants recognise that there will be core differences in the truth claims they hold.
- It is not expected that participants will reach an agreement on any issue or topics of conflict.
- But the Scriptural Reasoning movement hopes that all participants will reach a better understanding of different viewpoints.
Not used for missionary work
- The Scriptural Reasoning movements cannot be used for missionary work or attempts at conversion.
- Although participants may express love for their scripture and commitment to faith, the focus is on creating a tolerant and respectful discussion.
Test yourself on The Scriptural Reasoning Movement
Which of these are true of the Scriptural Reasoning movement?
What is the aim of Scriptural Reasoning Movements?