Analogy of Proportionality
Definition
The analogy of proportionality is a way to understand religious language, especially when describing God. It means that human qualities and divine qualities are related in proportion, though not in the same degree or form.
Explanation
- When we say “God is good,” it doesn’t mean the same kind of goodness as human goodness.
- Instead, it means God has goodness in a higher, perfect way that corresponds to human goodness in a limited way.
- The qualities exist in both, but proportionally to their nature.
Philosophical Use
- Used by Thomas Aquinas in explaining how language about God can still be meaningful.
- Helps avoid both univocal (same meaning) and equivocal (completely different meaning) problems.
Conclusion
The analogy of proportionality helps bridge the gap between human and divine descriptions, allowing meaningful religious language while respecting God’s transcendence.