Later, when he and other post-war theologians debated whether theology should be political, Jüngel would come back to this experience.
“The political relevance of Christian faith consists, from beginning to end, in its ability and obligation to speak the truth,” he said. “The political activity required of the church aims, above all else, to assist the cause of truth.”
Jüngel studied theology in East Berlin, pursuing a doctorate. In 1957, he managed to leave for an illegal year abroad. He went to Switzerland to study with the theologian Karl Barth and made regular trips to Freiburg, where he studied with the philosopher Martin Heidegger.
He was deeply influenced by both men.
In deep sadness: my teacher and good friend, Eberhard Jüngel, died today. He was a very inspiring and very learned theologian! pic.twitter.com/FlKTq9k4Vx
— Hans-Peter Grosshans (@HansGrosshans) September 28, 2021