Rudolf Otto

Rudolf Otto was a theologian and philosopher known for his exploration of religious experience. He introduced the concept of the "numinous," a profound feeling of the divine that combines awe and mystery. Otto emphasized that religious language often tries to express this experience, which transcends ordinary understanding. He argued that rituals and worship help individuals connect with the numinous, providing a structured way to encounter the sacred. His comparative approach highlighted similarities across religions, illustrating how different cultures interpret the afterlife and the divine, ultimately enriching our understanding of spirituality and the human quest for meaning.