Dissertation Title: How Does Anthropomorphism Help Us Understand the Concept of God?
Research Methodology: Extensive literature review
Research Design: Qualitative thematic literature review using secondary theological sources
Abstract
Background: Anthropomorphic portrayals of God have long been viewed as challenging within biblical interpretation. Many scholars argue that such portrayals cannot be taken literally because they do not fully capture the essential nature of God. Yet anthropomorphic language persists throughout Scripture, raising questions about its purpose and interpretive value.
Aim: This review aimed to explore the role of anthropomorphism in helping humans understand the concept of God and to examine how anthropomorphic expressions function within biblical texts.
Methods: An extensive literature review was conducted to identify studies addressing the anthropomorphic language used to describe God. Searches were performed across three databases—Religion Online, ATLA Open Press, and the Open Access Digital Theological Library. The selected studies were analysed thematically to identify major patterns in the use and meaning of divine anthropomorphisms in biblical interpretation.
Results: Three central themes emerged:
- Anthropomorphic descriptions of God in the Old Testament, including depictions of God with human emotions, actions, and physical features.
- Anthropomorphic interpretations in the New Testament, particularly in Christological language and metaphors describing divine agency.
- Anthropomorphic reasoning in religious thought, where metaphorical language enables believers to conceptualise divine attributes and relate to God more personally.
Across these themes, the findings indicate that anthropomorphic language is intentionally used to make biblical texts more accessible and to foster a stronger relational connection between God and humanity.
Conclusion: The review demonstrates that anthropomorphism serves as a vital interpretive tool within Scripture. Rather than diminishing the understanding of God, anthropomorphic expressions help readers grasp complex theological truths through familiar human categories. These portrayals function metaphorically, enhancing comprehension and deepening relational engagement between God and believers.
Keywords: anthropomorphism, Old Testament, New Testament, God and human relationship