A Handbook of Theological Terms

Book excerpt: A growing number of nonprofessional readers of theology, whether as individuals, in study groups, or in college courses, treat religion as the subject of disciplined study. Some acquaintance with the technical and traditional vocabulary is an asset to them. This guide to the meaning and use of nearly 350 theological terms provides something of the history and background of the terms it deals with. Copious cross-references add to the resources available for every entry. In the choice of terms to be explained, the primary emphasis is on those from systematic and philosophical theology. The text gives particular attention both to contemporary theology and to the historical differences between Protestants and Roman Catholics, and among Catholics.