The apophatic way

• Who came up with the apophatic way?

  Pseudo Dionysius
• What is the apophatic way?

  Describing God in negative terms

  Eg ‘God is not evil’
• What is another phrase to describe the apophatic way?

  Via negativa
• What is the argument for the apophatic way?

  If we describe God via negativa we accept the mystery of God rather than reducing God to human terms
• What was Pseudo-Dionysius’ argument?

  It is counter productive to speak of God as if he can be perceived by the senses or reached through reason

  People need to accept God will remain a mystery
• Who did Pseudo-Dionysius support?

  Plato
• What did Maimonides say?

  The best way to convey Gods nature is via negativa as it does not limit God