[B] Who & What is God?
- “What is God?”
This question seeks to understand the nature or essence of God. It explores what God is in terms of attributes, characteristics, or metaphysical properties. For example:
- Is God a being, a force, or a concept?
- What are God’s qualities (e.g., omniscience, omnipotence, omnipresence)?
- What is the nature of God’s existence (eternal, unchanging, transcendent)?
This approach often focuses on theology, philosophy, or metaphysics. For instance, philosophers like Thomas Aquinas explored what God is by describing God as “pure being” or “the uncaused cause.”
- “Who is God?”
This question assumes God is a personal being and seeks to understand identity or personhood. It explores who God is in terms of relationship, personality, or character. For example:
- What is God’s identity (e.g., the God of Abraham in monotheistic religions)?
- How does God relate to humanity (as a creator, savior, judge, or loving father)?
- Who is God in specific religious traditions (e.g., Allah in Islam, Yahweh in Judaism, or the Trinity in Christianity)? This approach is often more relational and personal, emphasizing God’s role and interaction with people rather than abstract qualities.
In short:
- “What is God?” = explores God’s nature or essence.
- “Who is God?” = explores God’s identity, personality, or relationship.
Both questions are foundational in theology and philosophy but approach the concept of God from different angles.