The Theological Rhetoric of Well-being: A Primer

How do theologians define and interpret the concept of well-being? What are some of the limitations and critique, but also possibilities and potential, for employing the rhetoric of well-being in theological discourses on human flourishing, thriving, and happiness? This paper offers a theological and rhetorical analysis of well-being in the work of theologians – including Jürgen Moltmann, Elizabeth Moltmann-Wendel, David Kelsey, Puleng LenkaBula, Gustavo Gutiérrez, Mercy Oduyoye, and Ellen Charry; together representing diverse contexts, interests, specialities, and priorities – in response to these questions. It is argued that well-being is both critically received (here the close but problematic alliance with notions of health and wealth is a key concern) and constructively engaged (here the notion of being well is closely linked to living well) in the work of contemporary theologians, particularly in response to the World Health Organisation’s definitions of health and well-being.