ABSTRACT: This article examines the concept of vicarious representation ( Stellvertretung ) in Joseph Ratzinger's The Spirit of the Liturgy , proposing it as a key category that unifies his theology. Rooted in the liturgical understanding of sacrifice, the concept reveals its soteriological depth in Christ's self-offering, where justice, mercy, and love converge. Against the insufficiency of "replacement" cults, Ratzinger presents Christ as the true representative who draws humanity into his obedience and restores communion with God. This representation is dynamically realized in the liturgy, which enables participation in Christ's Paschal Mystery and transforms human freedom into self-giving love. Thus, worship, salvation, and Christian existence are integrated within a single theological vision.
Borja Lleó (Thu,) studied this question.