Rainer Kampling

Prof. Dr. Rainer Kampling is a distinguished Professor of Biblical Theology/New Testament at the Seminar for Catholic Theology within the Department of History and Cultural Studies at the Free University of Berlin. Since 1992, he has contributed significantly to theological scholarship with a particular focus on Jewish-Christian relations, New Testament studies, and the history of Christian anti-Semitism. He serves as Executive Director of the Seminar for Catholic Theology and has been actively involved with the Selma Stern Center for Jewish Studies Berlin-Brandenburg as a member of its directorate and coordination board.

Dr. Kampling's research interests span Jewish-Christian dialogue, the theological implications of biblical texts, Catholicism and anti-Semitism, and the reception history of the Bible. His work consistently addresses the complex historical relationship between Christianity and Judaism, with special attention to how early Christian texts have been interpreted and how those interpretations have influenced Christian attitudes toward Jews throughout history. He has made significant contributions to understanding the theological roots of Christian anti-Judaism and the path toward contemporary Jewish-Christian reconciliation.

His scholarly output reveals a consistent focus on the intersections of biblical interpretation, historical theology, and contemporary interfaith relations. Kampling's work demonstrates how theological reflection on biblical texts must engage with their historical reception and the ethical implications of those interpretations. His publications often address how Christian theology can responsibly acknowledge and address the historical legacy of anti-Judaism while developing constructive theological frameworks for contemporary Jewish-Christian relations.

Among his notable institutional affiliations are membership in the Berlin Graduate School of Ancient Studies (BerGSAS), the Interdisciplinary Center for the Ancient World, and the examination committee of the Department of Historical and Cultural Studies. He also serves on the advisory board of the Foundation New Synagogue Berlin – Centrum Judaicum and is a member of the subcommittee for religious relations with Judaism of the German Bishops' Conference.

Prof. Kampling has supervised numerous doctoral students and contributed to major research projects including the critical complete edition of Hans Jonas's works on Gnosticism and the Encyclopedia of Jewish-Christian Relations. His teaching and research have significantly shaped theological education at FU Berlin, particularly in fostering interreligious understanding and critical engagement with Christian theological traditions.