THEOGASTRONOMY: A THEOLOGICAL AESTHETIC SUI GENERIS

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This article presents a new theological approach, called “theogastronomy”. This theological aesthetic argues that the relationship that a person, a people and a civilization establish with their “gastronomy” – in the etymological sense of the term – has a theophanic value and holds a discreet pastoral and theoretical fecundity. To demonstrate this hypothesis, the present article proceeds in three stages. First, it reflects on the concept of theogastronomy, as well as on the relationship between this approach and the religious knowledge of the biblical Revelation. Then, it places this theological aesthetic in its own literary and spiritual “cradle”, namely, the sapiential writings. Finally, it shows how this sapiential branch of theology can lead us to revisit, in depth, the living core of the Christian faith: the paschal mystery of Jesus Christ, the definitive expression of his free choice to give his life as food for the countless multitude of men and women seeking life in its fullness.

KEYWORDS: Theogastronomy. Wisdom. Theological Aesthetics. Paschal Mystery.