Abstract This paper introduces Hierarchical Epistemology as a foundational component of the Metadisciplinary Knowledge System (MKS) 1, offering a systematic framework for ordering knowledge sources according to their epistemic authority and theological grounding. In contrast to contemporary epistemological pluralism, which tends toward either relativism or reductionism, Hierarchical Epistemology proposes a four-axis structure: Revelation → Inspiration → Reason → Sanctified Opinion. This The ordering principle acknowledges the primacy of divine disclosure while responsibly integrating human cognitive capacities within their proper epistemic domains. The framework draws upon Reformed epistemology, biblical foundationalism, and Fernando Canale’s work on theological method to establish a coherent epistemic architecture that resists both fideistic isolation and rationalistic autonomy. Through rigorous historical-grammatical exegesis of Romans 12:1- 2 and supporting texts, this study demonstrates the biblical warrant for the four-axis hierarchy and clarifies cognition’s essential role in authentic faith. Hierarchical Epistemology functions as the cognitive ordering mechanism within MKS, articulated through its Epistemic Axes, working in concert with Thronaxis Cosmology (through its Ontological Strata, Synthesism, and Empirical Metadisciplinary Theology (through its Methodological Grids) to provide a unified metadisciplinary platform for integrating knowledge across theological, scientific, and philosophical domains. This paper argues that without such hierarchical ordering, contemporary interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary efforts inevitably collapse into methodological chaos or implicit secular epistemology. The contribution of Hierarchical Epistemology lies in its capacity to preserve the disciplinary integrity while enabling genuine knowledge integration under the regulative authority of divine Revelation. The framework provides explicit conflict resolution protocols, addresses major epistemological objections, and demonstrates practical applicability across theology, philosophy, and natural science.
JPierre KIBIISYO MMASAI (Sun,) studied this question.