Julien Ries, Belgian cardinal (d. 2013)

Julien Ries, a distinguished Belgian scholar and a revered figure within the Catholic Church, dedicated his life to the profound study of religious history. Born on April 19, 1920, he carved out a remarkable intellectual legacy that spanned decades, culminating in his passing on February 23, 2013.

His academic prowess shone brightest in the field of the history and phenomenology of religion, a discipline he not only mastered but significantly advanced. Ries was particularly renowned for his extensive research into the concept of homo religiosus – humanity's innate capacity for religious experience – and the symbolic universe inherent in ancient religions. He spent much of his distinguished career at the Catholic University of Louvain (later Louvain-la-Neuve), shaping generations of students and scholars with his insightful analyses.

Beyond his scholarly pursuits, Professor Ries received significant recognition from the Holy See for his immense contributions. He was elevated to the rank of titular archbishop and, most notably, was created a cardinal by Pope Benedict XVI in 2012. This rare honor, bestowed upon a non-residential academic, acknowledged his extraordinary intellectual service to the Church and humanity's deeper understanding of religion. This elevation, coming late in his life, underscored the profound respect held for his monumental work.

Indeed, the depth and breadth of his scholarship earned him immense acclaim from his peers. Prior to his death, he was widely regarded as a titan in his field, with some, like the influential Romanian historian of religion Mircea Eliade, reportedly describing him as "the greatest living religions scholar." This testament speaks volumes about his unparalleled influence and the enduring relevance of his analyses of myths, rituals, and the sacred.

Cardinal Ries's extensive body of work continues to be a cornerstone for scholars studying the origins and development of religious thought, offering invaluable perspectives on the human quest for meaning and the universal dimensions of the sacred. His legacy ensures that his intellectual contributions endure for future generations seeking to understand the profound role of religion in human civilization.

Frequently Asked Questions About Julien Ries

Who was Julien Ries?
Julien Ries was a prominent Belgian religious historian, who also held the ecclesiastical titles of titular archbishop and cardinal of the Catholic Church. He was widely recognized for his pioneering work in the history and phenomenology of religion.
What was his primary field of study?
His primary field of study was the history and phenomenology of religion. He focused extensively on understanding homo religiosus (religious humanity), the significance of myths, rituals, and symbols, and the religious dimensions of ancient cultures.
Why was he made a cardinal?
Pope Benedict XVI elevated him to the College of Cardinals in 2012 in recognition of his exceptional and lifelong intellectual contributions to the academic study of religion, particularly his efforts to foster a deeper understanding of religious phenomena within a Catholic intellectual framework.
What does "titular archbishop" signify?
"Titular archbishop" is an honorary title within the Catholic Church. It is conferred upon archbishops who do not serve as residential bishops of a diocese, often given to Vatican officials, nuncios, or, as in Ries's case, distinguished scholars, acknowledging their rank and dedicated service to the Church.
Who described him as "the greatest living religions scholar"?
This significant commendation reflects a broad consensus among his academic contemporaries. While the precise origin can vary in some accounts, it is often attributed to or associated with leading figures in the field, including the influential Romanian historian of religion Mircea Eliade.
What is Julien Ries's lasting legacy?
Cardinal Ries's enduring legacy lies in his extensive scholarly works and methodologies, which continue to profoundly shape the academic discipline of the history and phenomenology of religion. His insights provide foundational understanding for exploring human religious experience, myth, and ritual, making his contributions vital for ongoing scholarship.