THE CONCEPT OF TRUTH AS PRESENTED BY JOHN (8:32) IN LIGHT OF TRUTH AND CONSCIENCE AS DISCUSSED IN THE ENCYCLICAL VERITATIS SPLENDOR

Abstract

Given the extraordinary endangerment of truth, freedom, and moral action by subjectivism, individualism, and relativism in the contemporary world, the need has been recognized to recall the source of truth, freedom, and morality, which is provided by Pope John Paul II’s encyclical Veritatis Splendor. The purpose of this paper is to show how the teachings from the encyclical can be applied to the current moral dilemmas facing contemporary society, especially the relativization of truth, and to contribute to the spread of understanding of Christian values and their importance for the individual and society. Therefore, this paper provides a more extensive analysis of the encyclical, as well as its connection to John’s theology of truth. The paper deals in detail with the concept of truth in both contexts, analyzing biblical references, philosophical interpretations, and theological discussions. At the very beginning, the central role of truth in the Christian faith and its connection to human freedom is emphasized. This is followed by a detailed analysis of the historical development of the concept of truth, including the Hebrew and Greek views of truth, and John’s theology of truth. Particular attention is paid to the interpretation of the key verse from the Gospel of John: “You will know the truth, and the truth will set you free”. The second part of the paper is devoted to an analysis of the relationship between truth and freedom and truth and conscience in the encyclical. The aim of the paper is to gain a deeper understanding of the content and significance of the encyclical for the Church, as well as to consider how the teachings from the encyclical, and John’s Gospel, can be applied to the challenges facing contemporary society.