Imago Dei, Ontological and Relational Interpretations. Introducing Edith Stein to the Debate

The complex theological treatment of the person as imago Dei has focused on ontological, functional, relational or eschatological interpretations, which either belong possibly to all human beings. It is however unusual encounter a reflection person’s intrinsic uniqueness Dei. For Edith Stein priori individuality refers unique quality soul unfolds more less fully in unity body-soul-spirit unity: «the destined for eternal being, and this destination explains why called upon be an image God “wholly personal manner.”» (FEB 504 [422]) This ontological approach contributes consideration interpersonal enrichment through love, way fulfilment complementarity communion. An thus paradoxically leads discovery existential primacy relationality.