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Pantheism
Minority Truth Claim
What is pantheism?
Pantheism is the view that God is equivalent to Nature or the physical universe - that they are essentially the same thing - or that everything is of an all-encompassing, abstract God. Thus, each individual human, being part of the universe or nature, is part of God. The term "pantheism" was coined by the Irish writer John Toland in 1705.
What is Pantheism?
Classical Pantheism:
Types
This is the form of pantheism that equates existence to God without attempting to actually define the term. It believes in a personal, conscious and omniscient (all-knowing) God, and sees this God as one who unites all true religions. In many ways, classical pantheism is similar to Monism, in that it views all things-from energy and matter to thought and time-as being aspects of an all-embracing, personal god. It is known for its simplicity, and for its compatibility and inclusive attitude towards other world faiths. Classical Pantheism is represented by many religious traditions (for example Hinduism).
Biblical Pantheism:
Biblical
This form of pantheism is violently condemned by many traditional Christians, seeing as a lot of its key beliefs about existence differ from those of traditional Christians. However, biblical pantheists argue that some pantheistic views/ideals are expressed in the writings of the Bible. Biblical links between God and Nature, as well as the definition of God within the New Testament itself, all make up the basis of this belief system.
Naturalistic Pantheism:
Naturalistic
Naturalistic Panthiesm is the belief that even though God does not exist, this does not mean we should not focus on the world as it is no less mysterious. Therefore, nature is seen as being God-like only in a non-traditional, impersonal sense. Naturalistic pantheism is based on the relatively recent views of Baruch Spinoza (who may have been influenced by Biblical Pantheism) and John Toland, as well as contemporary influences.
Number of Pantheists
Why is it a minority truth claim?
Why is it a minority truth claim?
Pantheism is a minority truth claim because some of its ideals counter those of many major world religions (for example Christianity or Islam); pantheism is much more flexible and can be adapted according to an individual's personal preferences and opinions. Some people believe that pantheism is too vague, and prefer to follow religions with more clearly outlined core beliefs, which is why it is considered to be one of the smaller ways of life.
Famous Panthiests:
Famous Pantheists
- Alfred Lord Tennyson (poet)
- Baruch Spinoza (philosopher)
- Ludwig van Beethoven (composer)
- Ralph Waldo Emerson (poet)
- Albert Einstein (scientist)