Mitgeschöpflichkeit

The work demonstrates that 'environment' in the conventional sense is actually 'co-existence.' In particular, the Hebrew Bible documents the close connection between humans and all other creatures. The (parable) language of the New Testament is also clear in this regard. Paul speaks of the longing for redemption of all creation. According to Mark, Jesus is among the animals; and he himself is, as John states, the good shepherd. Martin Luther, Pietism, the revival movement, Albert Schweitzer, Karl Barth, and Dietrich Bonhoeffer all grant animals an important place in creation. Many contemporary theologians, philosophers, and writers point to the dimension of co-creatureliness. At the end of the investigation, it is necessary to ask what church and societal consequences can be drawn from the historical findings and ethical insights.