Revelation-based knowledge

Definition

Revelation-based knowledge refers to the understanding and beliefs gained through divine revelation, often considered a source of truth in religious contexts. This type of knowledge is distinguished by its foundation in faith and sacred texts, which followers believe to be divinely inspired or authoritative. It plays a significant role in shaping religious epistemology by influencing how individuals interpret spiritual truths and understand their faith.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Revelation-based knowledge is seen as a direct communication from God or a higher power, providing insights that are not accessible through human reasoning alone.
2. Different religious traditions have distinct views on what constitutes revelation, with some emphasizing personal experiences while others focus on written texts.
3. This type of knowledge can often lead to varying interpretations among followers, depending on their beliefs about the nature of revelation.
4. Revelation-based knowledge can create a sense of certainty for believers, as they view this knowledge as truth that comes from an infallible source.
5. Critics of revelation-based knowledge argue that it lacks empirical support and relies heavily on faith, making it challenging to assess its validity objectively.

Review Questions

• How does revelation-based knowledge differ from empirical knowledge in the context of religious belief?
  • Revelation-based knowledge differs from empirical knowledge primarily in its source and validation process. While empirical knowledge relies on observation, experimentation, and evidence gathered through sensory experience, revelation-based knowledge is derived from divine communication or sacred texts. Believers accept this type of knowledge as truth based on faith rather than empirical verification, leading to differing views on what constitutes understanding within religious contexts.
• Discuss the role of scripture in shaping revelation-based knowledge across different religions.
  • Scripture plays a central role in shaping revelation-based knowledge as it serves as the primary repository of divine revelations. Different religions have various texts deemed sacred, such as the Bible in Christianity or the Quran in Islam, which guide followers in their beliefs and practices. These texts provide teachings that are interpreted as direct messages from God, influencing how adherents understand their faith and live according to its principles. The interpretation of scripture can lead to diverse theological viewpoints within the same faith tradition.
• Evaluate the implications of relying on revelation-based knowledge for moral decision-making in a contemporary context.
  • Relying on revelation-based knowledge for moral decision-making can have significant implications in contemporary society, where diverse worldviews often clash. Believers may use their understanding of divine revelations to navigate ethical dilemmas, leading to convictions that can strongly influence personal and communal behaviors. However, this reliance may also create tensions with secular perspectives that prioritize empirical evidence and rational discourse. The challenge lies in reconciling deeply held religious beliefs with pluralistic values while ensuring respectful dialogue and coexistence among differing viewpoints.

Related terms

Faith:

Faith is a strong belief in the doctrines of a religion, often without empirical evidence, and plays a crucial role in accepting revelation-based knowledge.

Scripture: Scripture refers to sacred texts that are considered authoritative and divinely inspired in various religions, serving as a primary source for revelation-based knowledge.

Theology: Theology is the study of the nature of the divine, religious beliefs, and practices, often relying on revelation-based knowledge to understand spiritual matters.