Specifics of rationality in theological knowledge

The article discusses if it is possible to apply the concept of rationality to theological knowledge. It also describes the specific of such theological rationality. The author considers the concept of rationality in a classical and nonclassical epistemology and investigates various types of rationality. The author theoretizes that there are some similar principles in theological and nonclassical rationality. In general theological rationality is beyond standards of scientific (classical or nonclassical) rationality. Modern theology acts as a full knowledge within the nonclassical epistemology and contains the primacy of belief over knowledge, but it gives to reason one of key places in religious knowledge. It means that the reason is recognized as a very important thing, that is its necessary presence in theology is a sign of rationality. Cognitive process in theology manifests in coexistence both discourse methodology of obtaining knowledge about God, and spiritual practices to communicate with God. It allows to reveal the main epistemological principles of theological knowledge. One of them can be priority of interaction between the cognizing subject and a knowing object (God), as well as combination of rational and irrational methods of obtaining knowledge. These peculiar features of theological rationality contribute to the normal development of theological science.