The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

theodicy

IPA:

Dictionary definition of theodicy

The attempt to reconcile the existence of an all-knowing, all-powerful, and benevolent God with the existence of evil and suffering in the world.
"The question of theodicy has puzzled theologians and philosophers for centuries."

Detailed meaning of theodicy

The word "theodicy" comes from the Greek words "theos" (God) and "dike" (justice), and it involves grappling with the question of why a loving and just God would allow pain, injustice, and tragedy to exist. Theodicy has been a subject of debate among theologians, philosophers, and religious scholars for centuries, and various explanations and theories have been proposed in response to this issue. These range from the idea that evil is a necessary part of God's plan for the world, to the belief that God allows humans to have free will, which can result in the occurrence of evil acts.

Example sentences containing theodicy

1. Theodicy grapples with the age-old question of why evil exists in a world created by a loving deity.
2. Philosophers have debated the problem of theodicy for centuries, seeking answers.
3. Theodicy explores the tension between God's benevolence and the presence of suffering.
4. In theology, theodicy serves as a framework for understanding divine justice.
5. Theodicy attempts to reconcile human suffering with the concept of a benevolent God.
6. Many religious texts address theodicy, offering different perspectives on the issue.

History and etymology of theodicy

The noun 'theodicy' has its etymological roots in two components: 'theo-' and '-dicy.' 'Theo-' is derived from the Greek word 'theos,' meaning 'god' or 'deity.' '-Dicy' is related to the Greek word 'dike,' which means 'justice' or 'judgment.' Therefore, 'theodicy' combines these elements to convey the idea of justifying or explaining the ways of God. It refers to the philosophical and theological attempt to reconcile the existence of an all-knowing, all-powerful, and benevolent God with the existence of evil and suffering in the world. The term 'theodicy' underscores its historical role as a framework for grappling with profound questions of divine justice and the problem of evil, seeking to provide explanations or defenses for the apparent tension between the attributes of God and the existence of suffering and injustice.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun theodicy:

answer1

answer2

answer3

answer4

Try Again!

Correct!

Continue Quiz

Further usage examples of theodicy

1. The problem of theodicy challenges our understanding of God's nature.
2. Theodicy poses complex questions about free will and divine intervention.
3. Scholars continue to delve into the depths of theodicy, seeking theological insights.
4. Theodicy encourages us to contemplate the nature of good and evil.
5. Theodicy is a topic that has sparked countless theological debates.
6. The book delves into the nuances of theodicy and its implications for faith.
7. Some find solace in theodicy as they grapple with the mysteries of existence.
8. Theodicy prompts us to question the fairness of the universe.
9. Theodicy asks whether God can be both all-powerful and all-loving.
10. Theodicy's exploration of suffering is a fundamental aspect of religious thought.
11. Theodicy challenges us to find meaning in the face of adversity.
12. The debate over theodicy is a central concern for theologians and philosophers.
13. Theodicy seeks to shed light on the problem of evil in a divine world.
14. Theodicy invites us to reflect on the complexities of faith and human experience.
15. Theodicy attempts to reconcile the existence of a benevolent God with the existence of evil.
16. Theodicy seeks to explain why a just and loving God would allow pain and tragedy.
17. Theodicy is a philosophical and theological term.
18. Many different theories have been proposed to explain Theodicy.
19. Theodicy examines the nature of evil and suffering in the world.
20. Theodicy involves grappling with the question of why God allows injustice.
21. Theodicy is a subject of debate among religious scholars.
22. Theodicy is concerned with reconciling God's omnipotence and benevolence with the existence of evil.
23. Theodicy is a complex and nuanced topic.
24. Theodicy seeks to address the problem of evil.
25. Theodicy is an important issue in philosophy and theology.