Theology, simply defined, is the study of god(s), particularly critical examination of god(s) nature and the implications that nature has for life and living. All theistic religions have some form of theology, though it may be more or less formalized depending on the tradition. What I'd like us to think about in this thread is the role theology - the study of god(s) - has in our own religious traditions. You can use the questions below as starting points to get you thinking, but by no means feel limited to them!
- Is active study of the god(s) - practicing theology - important in your tradition? Are there formal or established institutions where people can go and study the theology of your religion? Is it something everybody can do, or something only a few people do?
- How do you approach studying the gods of your tradition? Do you connect with your gods and rely on direct personal experience? Do you listen to those you feel have a divine connection, such as a priest? Do you favor critical examination of literary texts that are sacred to your tradition? Something else entirely?
- What sorts of discoveries have you made about god(s) during your studies? Did you ever encounter anything that challenged you or confused you? Perhaps something that made you smile or made you angry?
- How has your study of god(s) impacted your religious practices? Did it change the rituals or prayers you do? Have you found yourself drawn to elements of your religious tradition that weren't appealing before? Something else?