god

• We need to engage in hermeneutics and consider the context in which the Bible was written, to understand why male-specific terms were used
• The use of anthropomorphic language to describe God has been problematic, but can be less so if it is not so gender-based
• Anthropomorphic language


  Language that ascribes human characteristics or behaviour to a god, animal, or object
• Anthropomorphic language can help humans understand God, for example referring to God as a king helps readers understand his omnipotence and authority
• Jesus himself used anthropomorphic language, such as the "Our Father" prayer, showing its important role
• Anthropomorphic language can help build a relationship with God, as God became flesh and human
• Abandoning all anthropomorphic language would lead to the annihilation of God and a loss of connection with him