ECOLOGICAL THEOLOGY: The sense of hearing in the writings of Hildegard of Bingen

Abstract

There is an ecological crisis swiftly approaching and manifesting within us, and in a time when the narratives we live by have become untenable, it asserts a specific role for scholars and scientists: to reassess and cast new light on traditional knowledge. The purpose of this research is to investigate Hildegard of Bingen’s (1098-1179) perspective on the phenomenology and psychophysics of her impositions on hearing and ears. To what extent does it pertain to/or achieve ecological wisdom? This study analyses the correlation between Hildegard’s auditory conjectures in her natural philosophy and situating it within the broader framework of ecological theology. An analysis of the opus was carried out with the aim of identifying excerpts that showcase her innate philosophy. Subsequently, a textual analysis methodology was employed to examine the chosen excerpts. According to the analysis conducted, Hildegard’s work demonstrates that her ability to perceive sounds and voices inspired her to compose a systematic method of theological instruction. According to her, our ideas and actions, i.e., inner listening in relation to voice, which all bodies have, shape us and others, and shows a deep connection to plants and the non-human world. Hildegard’s teachings centred on contemplation and her ecological wisdom is essentially concerned with ethical behaviour; encouraging ecological justice.