Krister Olofson Stendahl (1921–2008) was a Swedish theologian, New Testament scholar, and bishop known for his contributions to biblical studies and interfaith dialogue.
Born in Sennan, Halmstad, Sweden, he earned a doctorate in New Testament studies from Uppsala University (1954.) He later became a professor at Harvard Divinity School, serving as dean before his election as Bishop of Stockholm (1984.)
Stendahl reinterpreted the Apostle Paul’s writings, challenging traditional views in his article The Apostle Paul and the Introspective Conscience of the West. His book Paul Among Jews and Gentiles (1976) reshaped Pauline scholarship. He also wrote The Bible and the Role of Women (1966,) advocating gender equality in religious contexts.
Deeply involved in Jewish-Christian relations, Stendahl promoted religious understanding, formulating “Stendahl’s Three Rules of Religious Understanding,” which emphasized respect and empathy.
Other notable works include Meanings: The Bible as Document and as Guide (1984,) Holy Week Preaching (1985,) and Scrolls & The New Testament (1991.)
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Krister Stendahl
The more one pleases generally, the less one pleases profoundly.
—Krister Stendahl
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