We give God a name. We then equate God with the name we…
““We give God a name. We then equate God with the name we have given him, and in doing so we make ourselves, in effect, God’s God. Instead of acknowledging God as the source of our identity and existence, we make ourselves the self-proclaimed source of God’s identity. God then becomes the one made in our image and likeness. Those engaged in the undertaking of naming God see themselves as participating in a holy work. They are the God-definers, the definition makers.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
The quote argues that naming God projects human identity onto the divine, turning us into creators of God’s image rather than recognizing God as the source of our existence.
In simple terms: Naming God makes us define Him, reversing true source of identity.
Key Takeaway
Recognize God as the source, not a projection of self.
Themes
theology
identity
humility
anthropomorphism
Mood
reflective
contemplative
critical
Type
theological
philosophical
critical
When to use this quote
- religious practice
- personal meditation
- interfaith dialogue
- leadership
- creative expression
Key Concepts
Divine ontology
self‑definition
spiritual authority
Questions to Reflect On
- How does naming affect your perception of the divine?
- Can humility coexist with personal spiritual authority?
A Different Perspective
It can overlook the mystery of the divine and reduce spirituality to ego.