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Theodicy - Meaning, Definition & English Examples

Theodicy is the philosophical attempt to reconcile the existence of evil and suffering with the belief in a just and all-powerful God. It explores how divine goodness and human suffering can coexist.

theodicy

/θiˈɑdəsi/ /θiːˈɒdɪsi/

Definition:

The defense of God's goodness and omnipotence in view of the existence of evil.

Synonyms:

divine justice, vindication of God, justification of God

Part of Speech:

noun

Antonyms:

dystheism, misotheism

Common Collocations:

problem of evil, theological argument, moral evil, natural evil

Derivatives:

theodicean, theodician

Usage Tips:

Use 'theodicy' when discussing philosophical or theological responses to the problem of evil in religious contexts.

Common Phrases:

problem of evil, divine justice, moral justification

Etymology:

From Greek 'theos' (God) + 'dikē' (justice), coined by Leibniz in 1710.

Examples:

  • 1. Theodicy attempts to reconcile God's goodness with suffering.
  • 2. Her essay explored various theodicies addressing natural disasters.
  • 3. Philosophers debate the effectiveness of theodicy in modern theology.
  • 4. The book presented a compelling theodicy for moral evil.

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