Theo Midterm

What does “theology” mean?

From theos (God) + logos (reason/discourse); rational reflection on God.

How did Aristotle define theology?

The highest branch of philosophy dealing with divine/invisible reality.

What are Varro’s three types of theology?

Mythic, Rational, Civil

What is Aquinas’ view of theology?

A science based on divine revelation from a higher source (God).

What is Luther’s key theological emphasis?

Faith over reason; sola scriptura.

What makes theology unique among disciplines?

It integrates other disciplines to study God and truth.

How do faith and reason relate in theology?

They are in dialogue.

What are the key contributions of Divino afflante spiritu?

Focus on literary forms, historical context, and cultural assumptions.

What are the key teachings of Dei verbum?

Scripture is inspired, requires interpretation, and is unified.

What is the historical-critical method?

Studying authorship, context, and original meaning of texts.

What are the four senses of Scripture?

Literal, Allegorical, Tropological (moral), Anagogical (heavenly).

What does sola scriptura mean?

Scripture alone is authoritative.

What is “perspicuity of Scripture”?

The Bible is clear and understandable.

What are the two Genesis creation accounts?

Gen 1 (Priestly) and Gen 2–3 (Yahwist).

Key difference between Gen 1 and Gen 2?

Gen 1 = ordered/poetic; Gen 2 = personal/narrative.

How does Genesis differ from Enuma Elish?

Genesis = peaceful, monotheistic; EE = violent, polytheistic.

What does “image of God” mean?

Humans are relational and have dignity.

What is the significance of the Fall (Gen 3)?

Introduces sin and brokenness.

What does the story of Cain and Abel show?

God’s justice and mercy coexist.

What is the purpose of the Flood story?

Judgment of sin and preservation of a remnant.

What are God’s two main promises to Abraham?

land and descendents

What is the sign of the covenant?

circumcision

What does the sacrifice of Isaac represent?

radical faith and obediance

What is the significance of dreams in Joseph’s story?

God communicates through them

Key quote from Joseph narrative?

“Interpretations belong to God.”

Main theme of Joseph’s story?

God works through suffering for good.

What happens at the Burning Bush?

God calls Moses to deliver Israel

Purpose of the plagues?

Demonstrate God’s power over Pharaoh.

What is Passover?

Salvation through sacrifice (lamb’s blood)

What is the Exodus?

Liberation of Israel from Egypt

What is a theophany?

Manifestation of God’s presence.

What is the Decalogue?

10 commandments

What does the covenant at Sinai establish?

Relationship between God and Israel through law.

What does the Golden Calf represent?

Idolatry and breaking the covenant.

What are the three views of monarchy?

Theocracy, Royal theology, Limited monarchy.

What is significant about David?

Chosen by God but flawed; repents.

What pattern leads to exile?

Sin → warning → destruction.

What is Amos known for?

Emphasis on social justice.

What is Lamentations about?

Grief and response to Jerusalem’s fall.

Central question of Job?

Why do the righteous suffer?

What is the answer?

suffering is not always due to sin

What does Job ultimately learn?

God’s wisdom surpasses human understanding.

What is a “subaltern science” (Aquinas)?

A science that depends on higher knowledge—in this case, God’s knowledge.

Difference between natural and revealed theology?

Natural = reason alone; Revealed = based on Scripture and divine revelation.

Why is the unity of Scripture important (Dei verbum)?

The Bible must be read as a coherent whole, not isolated parts

How did the Reformation change biblical interpretation?

Simplified it, emphasizing literal meaning and sola scriptura.

What is the Enlightenment’s impact on interpretation?

Elevated reason and skepticism toward tradition.

Why are name changes significant (Abram → Abraham)?

They signal new identity and divine mission.

What was Moses’ original request to Pharaoh?

To let Israel leave temporarily to worship God.

What is the paradox of Pharaoh’s heart?

tension between free will and divine soveriengty

What is “liturgical memory”?

Making a past saving event present through ritual.

What is Nathan’s Oracle?

God’s promise of an eternal Davidic dynasty.

What is Amos’ main message?

Social justice matters more than empty ritual.

What does Genesis 1 emphasize vs Genesis 2?

order vs relationship

What is the biggest theological tension in Exodus?

Free will vs God’s control