Theological Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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theological
[ˌθiː.əˈlɒdʒ.ɪ.kəl ]
Definitions
study of religion
Relating to the study of religion, or religious beliefs and practices. Often used to describe things related to theology or the study of religious doctrines.
Synonyms
doctrinal, ecclesiastical, religious.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| theological |
Used when discussing the study or analysis of divine and religious beliefs, often in an academic or intellectual context.
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| religious |
General term used to describe anything related to religion, including practices, beliefs, and institutions.
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| ecclesiastical |
Pertains to the church or its clergy, often used in legal, historical, or structural contexts related to church governance and organization.
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| doctrinal |
Refers to specific principles, teachings, or beliefs held and promoted by a religious organization or group.
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Examples of usage
- The theological debate sparked discussions among scholars and religious leaders.
- She pursued a theological education to deepen her understanding of different faiths.
based on religious doctrine
Based on or conforming to religious doctrine. Refers to beliefs, teachings, or practices that are in line with the principles of a particular religion.
Synonyms
doctrinal, dogmatic, orthodox.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| theological |
Used to describe things related to the study of theology or religious beliefs in general. It's often used in academic or scholarly discussions.
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| doctrinal |
Refers to concepts related to a specific set of beliefs or teachings, especially within a religious context. It's often used when discussing formal teachings or positions held by a religious group.
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| dogmatic |
Implies a strict and inflexible adherence to specific beliefs or doctrines. It often has a negative connotation, suggesting an unwillingness to consider other viewpoints.
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| orthodox |
Describes practices or beliefs that conform to what is traditionally accepted as correct by a religious group. It can also be used more broadly to describe conventional thinking in other contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The community followed strict theological principles in their daily lives.
- His decisions were guided by theological considerations rather than personal opinions.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Philosophy
- Philosophers like Augustine and Aquinas merged reason and faith, setting the foundation for modern theological thought.
- Theological debates often tackle complex questions about existence, morality, and the nature of God.
- In Islamic philosophy, scholars such as Al-Ghazali emphasized divine attributes and the limits of human reasoning in understanding God.
Cultural Studies
- Different cultures interpret theology in various ways, influencing laws, social norms, and ethical systems.
- Theologians often engage with contemporary issues, including science, politics, and social justice, to explore their faith's relevance.
- Art and literature have been deeply influenced by theological themes, seen in works from Dante's 'Divine Comedy' to Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel.
Science
- The relationship between science and theology has evolved, with discussions about creation, evolution, and the nature of the universe.
- Theologians and scientists frequently collaborate to address questions of ultimate purpose and the universe's origins.
- The field of theistic evolution attempts to reconcile religious beliefs with scientific understanding of life's development.
Literature
- Many classic works explore theological ideas, influencing character motivations and plot development.
- In modern literature, authors often use theological themes to address existential questions and moral dilemmas.
- Book genres like speculative fiction frequently incorporate theological concepts, challenging readers to think about the divine and humanity's role.
Origin of 'theological'
Main points about word origin
- The term originates from the Greek words 'theos' meaning 'God' and 'logia' meaning 'study' or 'science'.
- 'Theological' has been in use since the Middle Ages, emphasizing the importance of faith in understanding the universe.
- The word reflects a shift in philosophy during the Renaissance, when human reason began to be applied to spiritual matters.
The word 'theological' originated from the Late Latin word 'theologicus', which in turn came from the Greek word 'theologikos', meaning 'of or pertaining to theology'. The suffix '-ical' is commonly used to form adjectives, indicating 'of, relating to, or characterized by'. The study of theology has a long history dating back to ancient civilizations, where it played a significant role in shaping religious beliefs and practices.
See also: theologian.