apophatic

[ˌæpəˈfætɪk]

apophatic Definition

denoting knowledge of God based on the negative attributes ascribed to Him in order to understand what may be stated about Him affirmatively.

Using apophatic: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "apophatic" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The apophatic tradition emphasizes the limits of human language and understanding in relation to God.

  • Example

    Apophatic theology is often contrasted with cataphatic theology, which emphasizes positive statements about God.

  • Example

    The apophatic approach to theology involves negating all concepts and images that might be used to describe God.

Origins of apophatic

from Greek 'apophasis', meaning 'denial'

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Summary: apophatic in Brief

'Apophatic' [ˌæpəˈfætɪk] is an adjective that describes a type of knowledge of God based on negative attributes. This approach emphasizes the limits of human language and understanding in relation to God, and involves negating all concepts and images that might be used to describe God. It is often contrasted with cataphatic theology, which emphasizes positive statements about God.