The idea that God is both one and three has been central to Christian theology for centuries. It can be traced back to the Nicene Creed, which states that Jesus Christ is "God from God, light from light, true God from true God." This credo affirms the doctrine of the Trinity, which teaches that there are three persons who share one essence - Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.
Many scholars argue that this binary metaphor is problematic because it reduces God to something finite and comprehensible. They suggest that the divine difference and unity cannot be captured adequately through human language and logic. In this paper, I will explore whether theology without binary metaphors can still preserve the mystery of divine difference and unity.
Let's consider the limitations of binary metaphors when describing God. The Trinitarian formula assumes that God is composed of three distinct entities, each with its own identity and function. This conceptualization suggests that God is made up of parts that can be separated and analyzed independently.
This understanding ignores the fact that God is infinitely transcendent and incomprehensible beyond our limited categories of thought. As Thomas Aquinas argued, "We must admit that we cannot understand the nature of God except by analogy, since we have nothing else but ourselves by which to grasp what is different than us." In other words, our human experience and language fall short of capturing the infinite complexity and richness of God's being.
The use of binaries such as male-female or heaven-earth reinforces dualistic thinking, which has been criticized for perpetuating oppressive power dynamics.
The idea of a patriarchal God who is omnipotent and omniscient is problematic because it excludes alternative conceptions of divinity. Theologian Kwok Pui Lan argues that feminist theology offers an alternative approach that challenges these traditional binaries. She suggests that God should not be defined solely in terms of masculine attributes but rather should embrace both masculine and feminine traits. Similarly, liberation theology emphasizes God's solidarity with the oppressed and marginalized, rejecting the notion that God is separate from human suffering.
Some scholars argue that binary metaphors are necessary to communicate essential truths about God. They claim that without them, we would lose access to key insights about divine unity and diversity. John Calvin, for instance, asserted that the Trinitarian formula was a necessary revelation from God to help humans comprehend his nature. He believed that while God exceeds our understanding, he still chooses to reveal himself to us through the doctrine of the Trinity.
While binary metaphors have played a significant role in Christian theology, they also limit our understanding of God. It may be possible to preserve the mystery of divine difference and unity without relying on them. Instead, we can adopt alternative approaches that challenge traditional categories and promote inclusivity.
Feminist and liberation theologies provide new perspectives on the nature of God, as do postcolonial and decolonial theologies that critique Eurocentric interpretations.
Whether or not we use binary metaphors, it is crucial that we continue to strive for greater intellectual and spiritual insight into the Divine.