The study of divinity is based on spiritual beliefs about a supernatural being or beings who are believed to have created the universe and everything in it. As such, theology focuses on understanding the nature of God, His character, and how He interacts with humans.
This has traditionally been limited to one particular aspect of God's character - that of love. While there is nothing wrong with studying love as part of God's character, it leaves out many other aspects that can also reflect His diversity, including affection, intimacy, and even sexuality. This narrow viewpoint has led to the exclusion of people who do not fit into traditional gender roles or who engage in non-traditional forms of expression or behavior from religious communities.
One way to broaden the scope of theology to include the full spectrum of human affection would be to examine different cultures and their views on love and sex.
Some cultures see sex as sacred, while others may find it shameful or taboo. Some may believe in polygamy or polyamory, while others prefer monogamy. By exploring these differences, theologians could gain a deeper understanding of God's love for all people and the various ways they express themselves.
They could learn about the diverse ways that humans experience and express love, which can add richness and depth to our understanding of God's character.
Another approach could be to explore the Bible more deeply, looking at passages that mention physical expressions of affection between humans or animals.
Song of Songs is a beautiful poem celebrating human love and eroticism. It does not shy away from describing physical acts but rather embraces them as a reflection of God's love for us. Similarly, Jesus' parables often feature physical touch and intimate moments, such as his washing of the disciples' feet or holding children in his arms. These stories show that God values all types of affection and relationships, not just romantic ones.
Expanding the scope of theology to include the full spectrum of human affection requires an open mind and willingness to explore new ideas. This can lead to a deeper appreciation of God's diversity, making space for everyone to feel welcome and included in religious communities. As we continue to seek to understand God's nature and His relationship with us, we must recognize that He created us with unique desires and affections that reflect who He is.
How can theology evolve to include the full spectrum of human affection as a reflection of divine diversity?
Theology has always been used to describe the relationship between God and humans, but the definition of what constitutes "affection" is a complex topic that needs further exploration. Affection is a natural human emotion that comes from within ourselves, while God's love for us is an abstract concept. Incorporating both into theology would require new perspectives on how we view our relationships with God and each other.