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Theology: meaning, definitions and examples

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theology

 

[θiːˈɒlədʒi ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

study of religion

Theology is the study of the nature of the divine, religious beliefs, and the practice of religion. It explores questions about the existence of God, the nature of religious experience, the meaning of life, and the role of religion in society.

Synonyms

divinity, religious studies, theosophy.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
theology

The study of the nature of the divine, religious beliefs, and the practice of religious faith, typically within the context of a specific religious tradition.

  • She decided to major in theology at the university to deepen her understanding of Christian doctrines.
  • The priest spent years studying theology before being ordained.
religious studies

An academic field that explores the various religious traditions, beliefs, and practices from a critical, secular perspective. It often includes the comparative study of different religions.

  • She is taking a course in religious studies to understand the world's major religions better.
  • The professor of religious studies emphasized the importance of cultural context in interpreting religious texts.
divinity

A term often used interchangeably with theology, but can also refer more broadly to the state of being divine or godlike. It is also used in academic contexts, particularly in names of religious studies programs.

  • He received his Master of Divinity from the seminary.
  • Many ancient cultures have myths about the divinity of their leaders.
theosophy

A philosophical or religious thought system that seeks to understand the mysteries of the universe and the divine through mystical insight or esoteric teachings, often associated with theosophical societies.

  • Theosophy combines elements of Western mysticism with Eastern philosophies.
  • He joined a theosophical society to explore their teachings about the spiritual nature of the universe.

Examples of usage

  • Theology students often debate the existence of a higher power.
  • His deep interest in theology led him to become a priest.
  • Theology plays a significant role in shaping religious doctrines.
  • Theology delves into the mysteries of faith and spirituality.
  • Theology examines the relationship between humans and the divine.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The term 'theology' comes from the Greek words 'theos' meaning 'God' and 'logia' meaning 'study' or 'discourse'.
  • The use of the word began in ancient Greece and was later adopted in early Christian writings.

Historical Context

  • The early Church Fathers, such as Augustine and Aquinas, heavily influenced the development of Western theology.
  • The Reformation in the 16th century sparked new theological ideas, leading to a split from the Catholic Church and the rise of Protestantism.

Cultural Impact

  • Theology has played a crucial role in shaping ethical frameworks and governance throughout history.
  • Art and literature, such as Dante's 'Divine Comedy', reflect deep theological concepts that influenced European culture.

Science and Philosophy

  • The dialogue between theology and science has evolved over time, with some seeking harmony while others find conflict.
  • Philosophers like Immanuel Kant and Friedrich Nietzsche critiqued traditional theological concepts, leading to modern existential thought.

Contemporary Discussions

  • In today’s society, theology is explored through various lenses including feminism, liberation theology, and interfaith dialogue.
  • Theology often intersects with politics, influencing social justice movements and debates on morality.

Translations

Translations of the word "theology" in other languages:

🇵🇹 teologia

🇮🇳 धर्मशास्त्र

🇩🇪 Theologie

🇮🇩 teologi

🇺🇦 теологія

🇵🇱 teologia

🇯🇵 神学 (しんがく)

🇫🇷 théologie

🇪🇸 teología

🇹🇷 teoloji

🇰🇷 신학 (神学)

🇸🇦 لاهوت

🇨🇿 teologie

🇸🇰 teológia

🇨🇳 神学 (shénxué)

🇸🇮 teologija

🇮🇸 guðfræði

🇰🇿 теология

🇬🇪 თეოლოგია

🇦🇿 ilahiyyat

🇲🇽 teología

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,687, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.