The aim of this article is to find a deeper and clearer understanding of term „elementary truth“ created by Karl Ernst Nipkow. Reflecting on preparation and planning of courses in religious education Nipkow suggested a four-step-model that is based on elementary structures, experiences, approaches, and above all elementary truths. Later Friedrich Schweitzer added the step of elementary methods. The article shows the sources of the notion of „elementary truths“ and elaborates the question for truth as necessary part of religious learning. It is intensely connected with the question for God and for man. In a situation of radical plurality in society the article argues that religious education should hold a clear position to involve learners in a search for meaning and truth that is of existential importance for their lives. The search for elementary truth today can only be a dialogical learning process, an interaction between persons and positions.