Hans Urs von Balthasar

Date of Birth: August 12, 1905

Zodiac Sign: Leo

Date of Death: June 26, 1988

Biography

Hans Urs von Balthasar was a Swiss theologian and Catholic priest who is widely considered one of the most important Catholic theologians of the 20th century. Born on August 12, 1905, in Lucerne, Switzerland, he initially studied literature and philosophy before turning to theology. He joined the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) in 1929 and was ordained a priest in 1936. His theological work is noted for its depth, breadth, and beauty, often focusing on the aesthetics of theology, integrating literature, philosophy, and spirituality. Von Balthasar’s most significant contributions include his multi-volume works “The Glory of the Lord,” “Theo-Drama,” and “Theo-Logic,” which explore the relationship between God’s revelation and human understanding. He was also a close collaborator with Adrienne von Speyr, a Swiss mystic, whose visions and insights significantly influenced his theological perspectives. In 1988, Pope John Paul II named him a cardinal in recognition of his theological contributions, although he passed away just two days before the ceremony.

5 Interesting Facts about Hans Urs von Balthasar

1. Hans Urs von Balthasar was named a cardinal by Pope John Paul II but passed away two days before the ceremony.

2. He founded the theological journal “Communio,” which became highly influential in Catholic intellectual circles.

3. Von Balthasar wrote over 100 books and 500 articles throughout his career.

4. His theological trilogy—”The Glory of the Lord,” “Theo-Drama,” and “Theo-Logic”—is considered a monumental contribution to modern theology.

5. He was deeply influenced by the works of Adrienne von Speyr, a Swiss mystic, whose visions he helped publish.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Hans Urs von Balthasar

1. “What you are is God’s gift to you, what you become is your gift to God.”

2. “The life of the Church is not a life of mere human inspiration, but a life that comes from above.”

3. “Love alone is credible; nothing else can be believed, and nothing else ought to be believed.”

4. “God is always greater than anything we can say about Him.”

5. “Only the lover sings.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

As a theologian and Catholic priest, Hans Urs von Balthasar did not amass a personal fortune. His “net worth” is better measured in his extensive contributions to theology and the Church rather than in financial terms.