God is often defined as having various extraordinary characteristics. Infinitely loving, all powerful, omniscient, the creator of the Universe, etc.
How can we know that this is indeed true? How can we verify such grandiose assertions? No greater claims could possibly be made!
Normally, we make definitions based on verifiable evidence and observation. For example, we define a giraffe as being a large four-legged grazing mammal with a long neck, hooves, a mouth, a tongue, teeth, and two eyes. We can rationally define a giraffe this way based on verifiable observation. We define a giraffe by going out and finding a giraffe, then defining it based on its attributes.
Yet somehow, God is defined in the opposite manner. We do not go out and find god and define it based on its attributes. Instead, we apply god's characteristics to him without ever observing god. Definitions seem to fabricated out of imagination. I find this extremely dubious.
It seems to me that we are applying these definitions to the concept of a god. We cannot verify nor falsify these attributes.
What is going on here?
The Definition of God
Moderator: Moderators
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Walterbl
Post #221
Thomas Aquinas said we cannot know what God is, but rather what He is not. It is impossible for finite humans to grasp the idea of a nearly infinite God. If God is powerful enough to create an entire universe, what could posibly be beyond God's power? Omipotence follows logically.
Post #222
RESPONSE: Really? Can God create a rock so heavy he can't lift it?Walterbl wrote: Thomas Aquinas said we cannot know what God is, but rather what He is not. It is impossible for finite humans to grasp the idea of a nearly infinite God. If God is powerful enough to create an entire universe, what could posibly be beyond God's power? Omipotence follows logically.
