God is not, like creatures, made up of parts. God is…
““God is not, like creatures, made up of parts. God is spirit, without bodily dimensions. Firstly, no body can cause change without itself being changed. Secondly, things with dimensions are potential of division. But the starting-point for all existence must be wholly real and not potential in any way: though things that get realized begin as potential, preceding them is the source of their realization which must already be real. Thirdly, living bodies are superior to other bodies; and what makes a body living is not the dimensions which make it a body (for then everything with dimensions would be living), but something more excellent like a soul. The most excellent existent of all then cannot be a body. So when the scriptures ascribe dimensions to God they are using spatial extension to symbolize the extent of God's power; just as they ascribe bodily organs to God as metaphors for their functions, and postures like sitting or standing to symbolize authority or strength.””
About This Quote
This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.
God is non-material spirit; physical metaphors in scripture symbolize divine power and authority, not literal bodily attributes.
In simple terms: God is spirit, not a body.
Key Takeaway
Understand metaphorical language about divinity.
Themes
theology
philosophy
metaphor
spirituality
ontology
Mood
contemplative
respectful
Type
theoretical
spiritual
When to use this quote
- religious study
- philosophical debate
- personal faith exploration
Key Concepts
Divine nature
symbolic language
epistemology
Questions to Reflect On
- How do metaphors shape belief?
- What is the purpose of physical imagery for God?
A Different Perspective
Literal readings can misinterpret divine concepts.