Enhancing theological imagination in Indonesian higher education: Pedagogical strategies

Abstract

The theopoetic imaginative approach in theological education offers a new paradigm that connects theological tradition with dynamic sociocultural contexts. This approach emphasises local imagination and symbolism and helps students develop a critical and contextual reflection on Christian teachings. Through integrating local cultural symbols, such as Dalihan Na Tolu in Batak culture or gotong royong in Javanese culture, theology is understood as a static doctrine and a living and relevant reflection. Theopoetic imagination also encourages interfaith and cultural dialogue, allowing Christian theology in Indonesia to interact creatively with other traditions. This approach provides students with space to think more creatively and become agents of change who can respond to social and spiritual challenges in a relevant manner.

Contribution: This study enriches theological pedagogy by offering a creative, imagination-based approach relevant to pluralistic socio-cultural contexts. This approach also contributes to interdisciplinary dialogue that connects aesthetics, theology and social reality.