About Us
About TABS
The Athenian and Beroean Society (TABS) is an independent centre for Bible and Philosophy that stands as a beacon of intellectual inquiry and dialogue. Founded on and drawing inspiration from the dual traditions of Athenian dialogue and Beroean inquiry, the Society aims to cultivate a vibrant community of truth-seekers—philosophers, and thinkers—who are dedicated to rethinking the Bible and fostering intellectual discourse across the humanities. Our ethos echoes the ideals of the Athenian and Beroean traditions, prioritizing dialogue and critical inquiry in our pursuit of truth.
Ultimately, the dedication of the Society to the Bible is rooted in a profound quest for truth, devoid of ulterior motives. Much like the Beroeans, the Society’s goal is not just to affirm pre-existing beliefs but to delve into the Scriptures with the intent of uncovering what they genuinely teach about God, humanity, and the universe. This re-examination is crucial, as it allows for the renewal of faith informed by understanding rather than mere tradition. It challenges the status quo and invites fresh perspectives into the discourse about existence.
The Society organizes seminars and conferences, debates and dialogue among scholars from diverse disciplines to promote engagement. By fostering an environment of openness and creativity, TABS aims to cultivate a new generation of thinkers who are equipped to tackle fundamental questions about existence, morality, and the human condition.
The Society’s commitment to spiritual, moral and intellectual core values aligns with contemporary discussions and movements in ethics and philosophy and our emphasis on values such as truth, love, and justice resonates with philosophical frameworks, suggesting a holistic approach to our intellectual journey that is both rigorous, socially engaged, and ethically grounded and informed.
In this spirit therefore, we invite everyone—scholars, thinkers, and truth-seekers—to join us in this journey of thought and dialogue as we challenge ourselves, engage with one another, seek to discern what the Bible truly teaches about God, humanity, and the very fabric of existence, and where the quest for truth remains the governing principle.
Aims & Objectives
The aim of the Society is to rethink the Bible, and to engage and promote dialogue in and across the humanities and the sciences. The objectives therefore, are:
- To facilitate intelligent and respectful conversation, dialogue between and among different beliefs, philosophies, and disciplines
- To collect and build a standard library – online or physical – for the society and its members.
- To create a supportive and an enabling environment (a dialogue hall) where individuals can gather to/and share their insights on biblical and philosophical issues and topics.
- To instil a love for continuous learning about the Bible, and philosophy.
- To enhance holistic (spiritual and intellectual) growth and consciousness.
- To stimulate thoughtful discussions that challenge members to analyse and reflect on their faith and life journey.
- To plan workshops, lectures, and conferences that provide and promote dialogue, and insights into biblical texts and philosophical ideas.
- To inspire and cultivate a new generation of thinkers – individuals who are equipped to engage thoughtfully with the Bible and its teachings
Core Values
- Divinity and Humanity
Divinity signifies the search for a higher purpose, urging individuals to look beyond mere biology and connect with something greater. This quest often leads to an enhanced sense of humanity, where we recognize our shared existence and, emphasizing our interconnectedness nurtures respect and compassion, allowing us to embrace our differences while building bridges of understanding.
- Truth and Love
Our commitment to truth demands that we approach the Bible with both reverence and critical thinking. The A&B Society encourages its members to challenge assumptions and explore ideas that may seem unconventional or uncomfortable. In doing so, we hope to uncover insights that resonate with contemporary experiences and contribute to a more nuanced understanding of faith and existence. Complementing this is Love, a transformative force that inspires empathy and kindness. When we act from a place of love, we not only uplift ourselves but also those around us, creating an environment where everyone can thrive.
- Unity, Peace, and Justice
Unity is vital in addressing societal challenges, as it brings together diverse perspectives toward common goals. This sense of identity and togetherness leads to Peace, which is enriched through Justice—a commitment to fairness that creates avenues for healing and reconciliation. By standing together for these principles, we create a more inclusive, supportive society where everyone can engage and benefit.
- Dialogue and Openness
Dialogue is the lifeblood of the A&B Society, where we engage respectfully with differing viewpoints. The Athenian tradition, characterized by open discussions and the exchange of ideas, is crucial in fostering a culture where questions are not just welcomed but encouraged. By engaging in thoughtful discourse, we invite individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore challenging questions, share differing perspectives, and find common ground.
- Creativity and Innovation
Creativity and innovation present the keys to addressing the complex problems of our time. We embrace new ideas and approaches, we develop solutions that were previously unimaginable. Encouraging a culture of Creativity empowers individuals to think outside the box, leading to breakthroughs that can benefit our communities and the larger world.
- Research and Learning
Emulating the Beroeans’ earnestness in investigating the Scriptures (Acts 17:11), our society promotes rigorous Bible research grounded in a quest for truth rather than adherence to doctrinal dogma. We recognize that the pursuit of truth and knowledge about the Bible should be a journey marked by curiosity and openness. By scrutinizing Scripture and questioning prevailing interpretations, we aim to discern what the Bible truly conveys about profound theological and existential questions; and In an era where knowledge is rapidly evolving, the ability to adapt and grow through continual learning is indispensable.