demythologization

theology

Also known as: Entmythologisierung

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June 17, 2026

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Demythologization is a theological method aimed at interpreting the essential message of religious texts, particularly the New Testament, by removing mythological elements and expressing them in existential terms. This approach seeks to uncover the underlying meaning of myths rather than accepting them literally.12

Theologian Rudolf Bultmann, influenced by existentialist philosophy, proposed demythologizing the New Testament because he believed modern people could no longer understand its message through mythological language. He identified elements like belief in a three-layer universe, miracles, and demonology as mythological. Bultmann argued that the core of Christian faith lies in the proclamation (kerygma) of the church, not necessarily in the historical Jesus. This method has been significant for the study of religion, though it has also faced criticism for potentially limiting dialogue between different religious traditions.13

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myth
Demythologization of major religious traditions
Demythologization should be distinguished from secularization. Every living mythology must come to terms with the world in which it is transmitted and to that extent inevitably goes through processes of secularization. Demythologization, however, refers to the conscious efforts people make…
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Demythologization should be distinguished from secularization. Every living mythology must come to terms with the world in which it is transmitted and to that extent inevitably goes through processes of secularization. Demythologization, however, refers to the conscious efforts people make…
Read More

Rudolf Bultmann
…for his program to “demythologize” the New Testament—i.e., to interpret, according to the concepts of existentialist philosophy, the essential message of the New Testament that was expressed in mythical terms.
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…for his program to “demythologize” the New Testament—i.e., to interpret, according to the concepts of existentialist philosophy, the essential message of the New Testament that was expressed in mythical terms.
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Judaism
Contemporary interpretations
The process of “demythologization” is one of the central concerns of modern religious thought. It recognizes that the natural language of religious truth is myth; thus, the continuing relevance of ancient scriptures depends not on the total rejection of that vehicle but rather on the expansion and remodeling…
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The process of “demythologization” is one of the central concerns of modern religious thought. It recognizes that the natural language of religious truth is myth; thus, the continuing relevance of ancient scriptures depends not on the total rejection of that vehicle but rather on the expansion and remodeling…
Read More