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What is panentheism and how does it differ from pantheism?

Arlene Matura

Panentheism and pantheism are two different beliefs about God or the divine. Pantheism means that God is everything and everything is God. This means that the universe and all its parts are considered divine. Panentheism, on the other hand, means that God is in everything and everything is in God. This means that while the universe is part of God, God is also larger than the universe.

In panentheism, God is seen as both transcendent, or above and beyond the universe, and immanent, or present in everything in the universe. This is different from pantheism, which only sees God as immanent, or present in the universe.

To understand the difference between panentheism and pantheism, imagine the universe as a big box. In pantheism, the box itself is considered divine. In panentheism, the box is part of God, but God also extends beyond the box.

Panentheism also allows for the idea that God can act in the world and is not solely confined to the universe. This means that God can intervene in our lives and in the world around us. Pantheism, on the other hand, doesn't believe in an interfering God.

Overall, panentheism is a more complex belief than pantheism. It recognizes the divinity of the universe but also allows for a larger concept of God beyond it. It also allows for the possibility of divine intervention, which is not present in pantheism.