What does theologically mean?
Theologically is an adverb meaning in relation to theology or according to theological principles. It is used especially when an idea, practice, text, event, or dispute is being assessed through the concepts, doctrines, or methods of theology rather than through secular historical, social, scientific, or purely practical criteria. For example, a scholar may call an interpretation theologically radical, while another may describe a policy as theologically problematic. The word is formal and specialized, though it is also familiar in discussions of religion, philosophy, ethics, and comparative religion. Its suffix, -ologically, joins a field name to an adverb of reference, producing forms such as biologically and philosophically. Theologically is therefore useful when the question is not simply what an event means but how it would be understood within a theology, a tradition of religious thought, or a system of doctrine.
adverbIn relation to theology or according to theological principles. Used to describe an idea, event, interpretation, or practice as understood through religious doctrine.
- In relation to theology; according to theological principles or doctrine.
"The committee debated whether the proposal was theologically compatible with the teachings of the church."
"Theologically speaking, the ritual was understood as a means of participating in sacred history."
"Her essay asks whether the policy can be justified morally without being justified theologically."
Built from Greek roots for “god” and “word” or “study,” theologically provides a precise way to describe discussion rooted in religious doctrine.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does theologically come from?
Theologically was formed from theological with the adverb-forming suffix -ly. Theological derives from theology, which comes from Latin theologia, a borrowing from Greek theologia; the Greek combines theos, “god,” with logos, “word,” “account,” or “study.” The same theological tradition also produced related forms such as theology and theologian.
How theologically is actually used
Chiefly formal and specialized, common in academic, religious, philosophical, and ethical discussion. It often contrasts a theological assessment with a practical, secular, scientific, or purely historical one.