Main Difference – Divinity vs Theology
Divinity and theology are two words that closely connected to the religion. Theology is the study of the nature of God and religious belief. Divinity is the state or quality of being divine. This is the main difference between divinity and theology. Although these two words have different meanings, in a general context, they may be used interchangeably. Since the term divine can also be applied in relation to god and theology studies the nature of God, theology and divinity are always interrelated. In addition, different academic courses on religion also use the two terms divinity and theology (a degree in theology, a degree in divinity, etc.). Therefore, in an academic context, these two words divinity and theology can be considered as synonyms.
What is Divinity
Divinity is the state of being divine. This state is associated with supernatural power or deity, such as a god, creator deity, supreme being, or spirits, and considered as sacred and holy. Divine things are considered to be eternal and based in true. Concepts such as apparitions, prophecies, miracles, visions, resurrection, immortality, and salvation are considered to be divine. Divinity is always associated with positive connotations such as grace, wisdom, goodness, fairness and justice.
The term divinity is used in two senses: divinity can refer to powers or forces that transcend human capabilities (supernatural powers) , at the same time divinity can also refer to attributes of individuals who are regarded to have some special access or relationship to the divine. For example, the kings were supposed to have the divine right to rule.
What is Theology
Theology refers to the study of religious faith, practice, and experience, especially the study of God and of God’s relation to the world. The term theology is derived from two Greek words, theos which is Greek for “God,” and logos meaning “word.” Therefore, theology literally refers to the word of god or study of god. Some are of the view that the term theology can be applied to religions that are based on the belief of a God.
Various forms of analysis and argument are used in theology to help understand, explain, critique, promote or defend religious topics. Theology enables theologians to understand the religious traditions and concepts better; then they have the ability to compare different religions and understand them more clearly. Through the study of theology, theologians can promote and defend their religion as well as challenge and oppose various religious views.
Theology is also taught as an academic discipline, particularly in seminaries, schools of divinity as well as universities. However, theology has been long criticized by skeptics and today it has been criticized to a great extent by secularists and atheists.
Difference Between Divinity and Theology
Divinity refers to the state of things that come from a supernatural power or deity, such as a god, deities, and are therefore regarded as sacred and holy.
Theology refers to the study of religious faith, practice, and experience, especially the study of God and of God’s relation to the world.
Image Courtesy:
“Peter Paul Rubens – The miracles of St. Francis Xavier – Google Art Project” By Peter Paul Rubens – mAG-VIH-g-_RNA at Google Cultural Institute maximum zoom level (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia
“Carlo Crivelli 007” By Carlo Crivelli (circa 1435–circa 1495) – Via The Yorck Project: 10.000 Meisterwerke der Malerei. DVD-ROM, 2002. ISBN 3936122202. Distributed by DIRECTMEDIA Publishing GmbH., (Public Domain) via Commons Wikimedia
