Theology

Definition

Theology is the study of the nature of the divine, religious beliefs, and the practice of religious truth.

Parts of Speech

Noun

Pronunciation

American English

IPA Pronunciation: /θiˈɑlədʒi/
Respelling: thee-OL-uh-jee (with "thee" as in "theme," "OL" as in "olive," "uh" as a schwa sound like the 'a' in "sofa," and "jee" as in "gee")

British English

IPA Pronunciation: /θiˈɒlədʒi/
Respelling: thee-OL-uh-jee (similar to American English, with "thee" as in "theme," "OL" like in "olive," "uh" as in "sofa," and "jee" like in "gee")

In both dialects, "theology" is pronounced with the primary stress on the "OL" syllable. The word begins with "thee," followed by "OL-uh-jee," with slight variations in the vowel sounds due to differences in accent. The pronunciation of "theology" is quite similar between American and British English.

Etymology

The term "theology" comes from the Ancient Greek words "theos" (Θεός) meaning "god" and "logia" (λογία) meaning "study of" or "discourse." Thus, theology can be understood as "the study of God."

Derivatives

Theologian
Theological
Theologize
Theodicy
Theonomy

Synonyms

Divinity
Religious studies
Doctrine

Antonyms

Atheism
Secularism
None

Usage

"Theology" typically refers to the formal study of religious beliefs, practices, and experiences. It is a multifaceted discipline that encompasses various religious traditions, doctrines, and philosophical analyses related to the divine.

Related Terms

Eschatology
Soteriology
Ecclesiology
Hermeneutics
Dogma

Detailed Definition

Noun

Study of the Divine: The study of the nature of God and religious beliefs, often within a particular religious tradition.
Example: His expertise in Christian theology is widely recognized in academic circles.

A System or Form of Beliefs: A system or form of thinking, especially about God and religious truth, that is characteristic of a particular individual or group.
Example: Liberation theology emphasizes the Christian mission to bring justice to the poor and oppressed.