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To say that God is an incorporeal substance, is to say in…

“To say that God is an incorporeal substance, is to say in effect there is no God at all. What alleges he against it, but the School-divinity which I have already answered? Scripture he can bring none, because the word incorporeal is not found in Scripture.” quote by Thomas Hobbes
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“To say that God is an incorporeal substance, is to say in effect there is no God at all. What alleges he against it, but the School-divinity which I have already answered? Scripture he can bring none, because the word incorporeal is not found in Scripture.”

Thomas Hobbes

About This Quote

This interpretation was drafted with AI assistance. It is one reading of the quote, not the author's own explanation.

He argues that calling God “incorporeal” effectively denies God’s existence, as the term isn’t scripturally supported.

In simple terms: Calling God non‑material means denying God exists.

Key Takeaway

Examine definitions before theological claims.

Themes

theology philosophy language

Mood

thoughtful analytical

Type

philosophical critical

When to use this quote

  • debates on divine nature
  • academic seminars
  • personal study

Key Concepts

metaphysics scriptural interpretation

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does “incorporeal” imply to you?
  • Can God be understood beyond physical terms?
A Different Perspective

Some may view “incorporeal” as a valid descriptor.

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