The Bible For Normal People [Faith] Episode 57: Janet Williams - What We Can (and Can’t) Say About God
55 snips
May 5, 2025 In a thought-provoking discussion, theologian Janet Williams, an expert in religious studies and author of 'Seeking the God Beyond,' dives into apophatic theology, emphasizing the mysterious nature of God. She explores the challenges of using language to describe the divine, inviting listeners to reflect on the limits of human expression. Williams also discusses the evolution of personal images of God and the importance of embracing divine paradox, encouraging a deeper, more contemplative approach to spirituality that acknowledges both silence and compassion.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
God Exceeds Our Language
- God is beyond our words and concepts, which only point to bits of reality, not the source of reality itself.
- Approaching God requires acknowledging this limitation and sometimes unsaying what we say about God.
Scripture Embraces Ambiguity
- Scripture itself presents multiple, sometimes contradictory portrayals of God and history.
- This invites readers to be curious, unsettled, and go beyond words towards deeper understanding.
Apophatic Spirituality Is Dangerous
- Historical figures like Margaret Perita and John of the Cross faced persecution over apophatic ideas.
- Apophatic spirituality is dangerous because it challenges comfortable images of God and self-identity.
