Attributing traits to the divine includes utilizing language to precise ideas past human comprehension. These descriptors, starting from summary qualities like omnipotence and omniscience to extra relatable phrases corresponding to merciful and simply, goal to seize the essence of the divine throughout the limitations of human understanding. As an example, describing the divine as benevolent implies an inherent goodness and a disposition in direction of kindness and compassion. This means of assigning traits supplies a framework for understanding and referring to the divine, shaping theological discourse and private non secular experiences.
The apply of ascribing attributes to the divine holds vital significance in numerous spiritual and philosophical traditions. It supplies a basis for understanding the character of the divine, shaping theological doctrines, and influencing moral frameworks. Traditionally, these descriptors have advanced alongside cultural and societal shifts, reflecting altering human views on morality, existence, and the universe itself. The cautious collection of terminology supplies a method for believers to attach with their religion on a deeper stage, fostering a way of awe, reverence, and understanding.
This exploration will delve into numerous attributes assigned to the divine throughout completely different perception methods, inspecting their origins, interpretations, and influence on spiritual practices and beliefs. The next sections will analyze particular examples of such descriptions, categorizing them primarily based on shared traits and exploring their nuances inside completely different theological frameworks.
1. Attributes
Attributes kind the cornerstone of descriptions utilized to the divine. They symbolize inherent and important qualities believed to outline the divine nature. These attributes, usually thought of immutable and everlasting, function a basis for theological discourse and form understanding of the divine’s relationship with the universe and humanity. For instance, the attribute of omnipotence, signifying limitless energy, frames discussions about divine motion and intervention on the planet. Equally, omniscience, the attribute of all-knowingness, informs discussions about divine consciousness and judgment. Understanding these core attributes supplies a framework for deciphering different descriptive phrases and metaphors utilized to the divine. The cause-and-effect relationship lies within the attributes informing the selection of descriptive phrases. The attribute of benevolence, for example, results in descriptors like merciful, compassionate, and loving.
The significance of attributes lies of their skill to supply a structured and systematic strategy to understanding the divine. They provide a conceptual framework for organizing numerous traits and exploring their interrelationships. Ascribing omnibenevolence, for example, necessitates grappling with the issue of evil, prompting theological inquiry and debate. The sensible significance of understanding these attributes lies of their affect on spiritual practices, ethical codes, and private non secular experiences. Perception in a simply and merciful divine, for instance, can encourage acts of charity and compassion.
In abstract, attributes function the basic constructing blocks for developing descriptions of the divine. They provide a scientific technique to discover the divine nature, influencing theological discourse, shaping spiritual practices, and informing private non secular experiences. Whereas particular interpretations could differ throughout completely different spiritual traditions, the core precept of ascribing inherent qualities stays central to understanding the divine. Additional exploration into particular attributes and their nuances inside numerous theological frameworks will deepen this understanding and supply additional perception into the advanced relationship between language and the divine.
2. Qualities
Qualities, much like attributes, contribute considerably to the language used to explain the divine. Whereas attributes usually symbolize elementary traits, qualities supply a extra nuanced understanding, specializing in particular elements of the divine nature. These qualities, although usually derived from core attributes, present a extra accessible and relatable framework for human comprehension. As an example, the attribute of omnipotence would possibly manifest because the qualities of energy, energy, and authority. Equally, omniscience can provide rise to qualities corresponding to knowledge, perception, and understanding. The cause-and-effect relationship lies in attributes offering the inspiration upon which particular qualities are understood and articulated. Divine justice, for example, is a top quality stemming from a extra elementary attribute of righteousness.
The significance of understanding divine qualities lies of their skill to bridge the hole between summary attributes and human expertise. They provide tangible expressions of in any other case incomprehensible ideas. The standard of mercy, for instance, interprets the summary idea of divine compassion right into a relatable kind, informing moral conduct and galvanizing acts of kindness. In real-world situations, the standard of divine forgiveness performs an important function in numerous spiritual practices, providing solace and selling reconciliation inside communities. The understanding of divine endurance permits people to grapple with private struggles and keep religion throughout difficult instances.
In abstract, qualities present an important lens by which one can perceive and describe the divine. They symbolize particular manifestations of elementary attributes, providing a extra accessible and relatable framework for human comprehension. Understanding these qualities gives priceless insights into the divine nature, influencing spiritual practices, shaping moral frameworks, and offering consolation and steerage in private non secular journeys. Additional exploration of particular qualities and their sensible implications inside numerous theological traditions will contribute to a richer and extra nuanced understanding of the connection between human language and the divine.
3. Traits
Traits, within the context of describing the divine, symbolize particular traits or options that contribute to a complete understanding of the divine nature. These traits, usually intertwined with attributes and qualities, present a extra detailed and nuanced perspective, permitting for a deeper exploration of the divine’s multifaceted nature. Inspecting these traits facilitates a richer understanding of how language shapes perceptions and interpretations of the divine throughout completely different spiritual and philosophical traditions.
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Ethical Traits
Ethical traits ascribe moral qualities to the divine, shaping understandings of divine justice, mercy, and righteousness. Examples embrace holiness, compassion, and forgiveness. These traits inform ethical codes inside spiritual traditions and affect particular person moral decision-making. The idea of divine justice, for example, performs an important function in understanding reward and punishment, each on this life and the afterlife.
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Transcendental Traits
Transcendental traits deal with elements of the divine that surpass human comprehension. These traits emphasize the divine’s otherworldly nature, usually described by phrases like everlasting, infinite, and immutable. Such descriptions spotlight the divine’s existence past the restrictions of house and time, distinguishing it from the created world. The idea of divine immutability, for example, asserts that the divine nature stays unchanged by exterior forces or the passage of time.
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Relational Traits
Relational traits give attention to the divine’s interplay with the world and humanity. Descriptors corresponding to creator, sustainer, and redeemer fall into this class. These traits form understandings of the divine’s function in creation, ongoing involvement within the universe, and relationship with humankind. The attribute of divine windfall, for instance, emphasizes the divine’s energetic function in guiding and caring for the world.
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Existential Traits
Existential traits deal with elementary elements of the divine’s being. Ideas corresponding to self-existence, necessity, and aseity belong to this class. These traits discover the character of the divine’s existence, unbiased of any exterior trigger or contingency. The idea of divine aseity, for example, asserts that the divine is self-originating and never depending on the rest for existence.
These distinct but interconnected traits, when thought of collectively, supply a extra complete understanding of the language used to explain the divine. Inspecting these traits not solely supplies insights into particular descriptive phrases but in addition reveals underlying theological assumptions and cultural influences. This exploration finally contributes to a richer appreciation of the advanced relationship between language, human understanding, and the divine.
4. Epithets
Epithets play a major function within the lexicon used to explain the divine. Functioning as descriptive titles or nicknames, they add a layer of specificity and nuance to broader descriptions. The cause-and-effect relationship lies within the divine’s perceived attributes and actions giving rise to particular epithets. For instance, an act of divine creation would possibly result in the epithet “The Creator,” whereas an act of deliverance might end result within the epithet “The Redeemer.” The significance of epithets lies of their skill to encapsulate advanced theological ideas in concise and memorable varieties. They function shorthand designations that evoke particular elements of the divine nature or deeds, enriching spiritual language and fostering deeper understanding. In real-world contexts, epithets like “The Good Shepherd” or “The King of Kings” evoke particular imagery and associations inside specific religion traditions, shaping liturgical practices and influencing private devotion.
Additional evaluation reveals that epithets usually mirror the particular cultural and historic contexts through which they come up. As an example, martial epithets like “Lord of Hosts” mirror a interval of battle and conquest, whereas pastoral epithets like “The Good Shepherd” resonate with agrarian societies. This contextual understanding is essential for deciphering the meant which means and significance of various epithets. Furthermore, the usage of epithets can differ considerably throughout completely different spiritual traditions and even inside completely different branches of the identical custom. Evaluating and contrasting the epithets used for the divine throughout numerous cultures and historic durations supplies priceless insights into the evolution of spiritual thought and apply. As an example, the shift from emphasizing divine energy and wrath to highlighting divine love and mercy will be noticed within the altering use of epithets over time.
In abstract, epithets symbolize an integral part of the language used to explain the divine. They provide concise and evocative descriptions, encapsulating advanced theological ideas and shaping spiritual understanding. Recognizing the historic and cultural contexts through which epithets come up, together with their various utilization throughout completely different traditions, is essential for a nuanced understanding of their which means and significance. This evaluation contributes to a richer appreciation of the intricate relationship between language, tradition, and the human endeavor to understand and describe the divine.
5. Names
Names, within the context of describing the divine, symbolize greater than mere labels. They maintain vital weight, usually embodying important attributes, conveying theological significance, and shaping the best way the divine is perceived and understood. The connection between names and descriptions of the divine lies within the inherent energy of names to each mirror and form understanding. Ascribing a reputation usually implies ascribing sure traits, and the very act of uttering a divine identify can evoke a way of reverence, awe, or connection. This exploration delves into the multifaceted nature of divine names and their function in shaping spiritual language and expertise.
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Theological Significance
Names usually carry deep theological which means, encapsulating core beliefs concerning the divine nature. The Hebrew identify “YHWH,” for instance, is related to the idea of divine self-existence and is commonly interpreted as “I AM WHO I AM.” This identify reveals a elementary theological assertion concerning the divine’s everlasting and uncaused nature. Equally, names like “Allah” in Islam emphasize the divine’s unity and transcendence. These names function anchors for theological reflection and supply a focus for spiritual devotion.
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Cultural and Linguistic Context
Divine names are sometimes embedded inside particular cultural and linguistic contexts. The interpretation and understanding of a reputation can differ considerably relying on the language and tradition through which it’s used. For instance, the identify “God” in English carries a special set of cultural and historic associations than the identify “Brahman” in Hinduism or “Kami” in Shinto. Analyzing the linguistic roots and cultural context of divine names supplies priceless insights into the evolution of spiritual language and the various methods through which the divine is conceptualized throughout completely different cultures.
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Energy and Reverence
In many non secular traditions, divine names are handled with profound reverence and are generally thought of too sacred to be uttered aloud. This apply stems from the idea that the identify itself carries energy and that uttering it may well invoke the divine presence or affect occasions. The apply of avoiding sure divine names displays a deep respect for the divine’s transcendence and energy. In some traditions, particular rituals and practices encompass the usage of divine names, additional emphasizing their significance and energy.
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Revelation and Relationship
The act of showing a divine identify is commonly understood as a major act of self-disclosure and an invite to a deeper relationship. In biblical narratives, for example, God’s revelation of his identify to Moses is a pivotal second, establishing a covenant and marking a deeper stage of communication and interplay. This understanding of divine names as a method of revelation highlights the relational side of spiritual expertise and the significance of language in fostering reference to the divine.
In conclusion, divine names symbolize excess of easy labels. They perform as highly effective symbols, embodying theological ideas, reflecting cultural values, and shaping spiritual expertise. Understanding the various roles and significance of divine names supplies priceless insights into the advanced relationship between language, perception, and the human quest to grasp and describe the divine. This exploration illuminates the wealthy tapestry of human expression because it seeks to seize the essence of the divine by the ability of names.
6. Titles
Titles, assigned to the divine, perform as designations that convey authority, standing, and particular domains of affect. The causal hyperlink between these titles and descriptions of the divine lies in attributes and actions ascribed to the divine. Omnipotence, for instance, could result in titles like “Almighty” or “Sovereign,” whereas acts of creation would possibly end result within the title “Creator.” The significance of titles lies of their capability to encapsulate advanced theological ideas into concise and readily understood varieties. They function markers of reverence, signifying the divine’s distinctive place and energy. In real-world situations, titles like “Lord,” “King,” or “Holy One” evoke particular connotations inside spiritual communities, shaping liturgical practices, influencing private devotion, and informing theological discourse. The sensible significance of understanding these titles lies of their skill to make clear the divine’s perceived roles and obligations inside a given perception system.
Additional evaluation reveals that titles usually mirror the particular cultural and historic contexts through which they emerge. Titles like “King of Kings” or “Lord of Hosts,” for example, mirror a milieu the place earthly energy buildings knowledgeable perceptions of divine authority. This contextual understanding turns into essential for precisely deciphering the meant which means and significance of assorted titles throughout completely different traditions. Furthermore, the applying of titles can differ considerably not solely between completely different religions but in addition inside various branches of the identical religion. Evaluating and contrasting titles used for the divine throughout numerous cultures and time durations gives priceless insights into the evolution of spiritual thought and the various methods through which authority and energy are conceptualized in relation to the divine. The evolution of titles can even mirror shifts in theological emphasis, corresponding to a transfer from emphasizing divine wrath to specializing in divine love and mercy.
In abstract, titles represent an important element throughout the language employed to explain the divine. They provide concise and evocative designations, encapsulating advanced theological ideas and shaping spiritual understanding. Recognizing the historic and cultural contexts through which titles come up, together with their various purposes throughout traditions, proves important for a nuanced interpretation of their which means and significance. This evaluation enriches comprehension of the intricate interaction between language, tradition, and the continuing human endeavor to grasp and describe the divine. It underscores the ability of language to each mirror and form our perceptions of the divine and the buildings of authority related to it.
7. Representations
Representations, within the context of describing the divine, embody the varied varieties and symbols used to precise and perceive the divine nature. These representations, starting from anthropomorphic depictions to summary symbols, are intrinsically linked to the phrases used to explain the divine. The cause-and-effect relationship lies within the descriptive language shaping and informing the chosen representations. As an example, describing the divine as a “king” would possibly result in representations that includes crowns and thrones, whereas descriptions emphasizing divine gentle would possibly lead to representations utilizing halos or sunbursts. The significance of representations lies of their skill to make summary ideas extra tangible and accessible, fostering understanding and facilitating engagement with the divine. Actual-world examples embrace icons in Jap Orthodox Christianity, statues of deities in Hinduism, and calligraphic representations of God’s identify in Islam. The sensible significance of understanding these representations lies of their skill to convey advanced theological concepts, evoke emotional responses, and function focal factors for spiritual practices.
Additional evaluation reveals that representations of the divine are sometimes deeply embedded inside particular cultural and historic contexts. Depictions of deities in historic Egyptian artwork, for instance, differ considerably from these present in medieval European artwork, reflecting differing cultural values and creative kinds. This contextual understanding turns into essential for deciphering the meant which means and symbolism embedded inside numerous representations. Furthermore, the acceptance and use of representations can differ considerably throughout completely different spiritual traditions. Aniconism, the avoidance of divine photos, is a outstanding function in some faiths, stemming from theological considerations about idolatry. Evaluating and contrasting the approaches to illustration throughout various traditions supplies priceless insights into the advanced interaction between spiritual beliefs, cultural practices, and creative expression. As an example, the usage of mandalas in Buddhism serves a special spiritual perform than the usage of stained-glass home windows depicting biblical scenes in Christianity.
In abstract, representations represent a strong and multifaceted element of the language used to explain and have interaction with the divine. They translate summary ideas into tangible varieties, shaping spiritual understanding, evoking emotional responses, and serving as focal factors for spiritual practices. Recognizing the cultural, historic, and theological contexts surrounding these representations is essential for a nuanced understanding of their meant which means and significance. This exploration underscores the advanced interaction between language, imagery, and the continuing human endeavor to understand and join with the divine. It highlights the capability of representations to bridge the hole between the ineffable nature of the divine and the human want for understanding and connection.
8. Metaphors
Metaphors, within the context of describing the divine, function highly effective linguistic instruments that bridge the hole between human understanding and the ineffable nature of the divine. The cause-and-effect relationship lies within the limitations of human language to instantly grasp divine realities, necessitating the usage of metaphorical language to convey advanced theological ideas. Attributes ascribed to the divine, corresponding to omnipotence or omnibenevolence, usually transcend human comprehension, prompting the usage of metaphors drawn from human expertise. As an example, describing the divine as a “rock” conveys energy and steadfastness, whereas describing the divine as a “shepherd” evokes steerage and safety. The significance of metaphors lies of their skill to make summary ideas extra relatable and accessible, fostering understanding and enriching spiritual language. Actual-world examples abound in sacred texts and non secular discourse, the place metaphors like “gentle of the world,” “king of kings,” and “bread of life” convey profound theological truths in evocative and memorable methods. The sensible significance of understanding these metaphors lies of their capability to light up advanced doctrines, evoke emotional responses, and deepen non secular engagement.
Additional evaluation reveals that metaphors used to explain the divine are sometimes deeply rooted in particular cultural and historic contexts. Agricultural societies, for instance, would possibly favor metaphors associated to farming and shepherding, whereas warrior cultures would possibly make use of metaphors of conquest and dominion. This contextual understanding is essential for deciphering the meant which means and cultural significance of various metaphors. Furthermore, the interpretation and acceptance of metaphors can differ considerably throughout completely different spiritual traditions and even inside completely different branches of the identical custom. Some traditions embrace a variety of metaphors, whereas others train warning because of considerations about anthropomorphism or misrepresentation. Evaluating and contrasting metaphorical language throughout various traditions supplies priceless insights into the various methods through which people conceptualize and relate to the divine. For instance, the metaphor of divine motherhood carries completely different connotations and implications than the metaphor of divine kingship.
In abstract, metaphors symbolize an indispensable element of the language used to explain the divine. They supply a method of bridging the hole between human understanding and the transcendent nature of the divine, making summary ideas extra accessible and relatable. Recognizing the cultural, historic, and theological contexts through which metaphors come up is crucial for a nuanced understanding of their meant which means and significance. This exploration underscores the ability of metaphorical language to form spiritual thought, evoke emotional responses, and foster deeper engagement with the divine. It highlights the dynamic interaction between language, tradition, and the continuing human endeavor to understand and articulate the mysteries of the divine.
Ceaselessly Requested Questions
This part addresses widespread inquiries concerning the language used to explain the divine, aiming to make clear potential ambiguities and supply additional perception into this advanced matter.
Query 1: Why is it so tough to explain the divine utilizing human language?
The divine, in most theological frameworks, transcends human comprehension. Human language, inherently restricted by finite expertise, struggles to seize the essence of a actuality past human grasp. This inherent limitation necessitates the usage of symbolic language, analogies, and metaphors, which, whereas useful, stay imperfect representations.
Query 2: Do completely different religions use comparable phrases to explain the divine, and if that’s the case, what does this counsel?
Whereas completely different religions could use seemingly comparable phrases, corresponding to “love,” “justice,” or “compassion,” the particular theological connotations can differ considerably. Shared terminology can counsel common human experiences and values projected onto the divine, however cautious consideration of the particular spiritual context is essential for correct interpretation. Obvious similarities shouldn’t be mistaken for full equivalence in which means.
Query 3: How do cultural and historic contexts affect the language used to explain the divine?
Cultural and historic contexts profoundly form spiritual language. The particular metaphors, symbols, and titles used to explain the divine usually mirror the values, experiences, and social buildings of the time and place through which they originated. Understanding these contexts is essential for deciphering the meant which means and avoiding anachronistic or culturally insensitive readings.
Query 4: Is it ever acceptable to make use of unfavorable language to explain the divine, corresponding to what the divine is not?
Damaging theology, or through negativa, makes use of unfavorable language to explain the divine by stating what the divine is not. This strategy acknowledges the restrictions of human language to positively outline the divine and makes an attempt to strategy the divine nature by a means of elimination, emphasizing the divine’s transcendence and otherness.
Query 5: How can one keep away from anthropomorphism when describing the divine?
Avoiding anthropomorphism requires a acutely aware effort to acknowledge the restrictions of human language and the inherent variations between the divine and human nature. Whereas metaphors and analogies will be useful, it is essential to keep up consciousness of their symbolic nature and keep away from projecting human limitations and biases onto the divine.
Query 6: Does the usage of particular phrases to explain the divine restrict understanding, or can it improve understanding?
The usage of phrases, whereas mandatory for communication and understanding, can even create limitations. Particular phrases can solidify and probably prohibit understanding of the divine’s boundless nature. Nonetheless, fastidiously chosen language, together with metaphors and symbols, can even open up new avenues for comprehension and engagement with the divine. The important thing lies in recognizing the inherent limitations of language whereas concurrently harnessing its energy to light up and encourage.
Understanding the nuances of spiritual language requires cautious consideration of assorted components, together with cultural contexts, historic influences, and the inherent limitations of human expression. Continued exploration and significant engagement with these complexities deepen understanding and foster extra significant dialogue concerning the divine.
Additional exploration of particular spiritual traditions and their respective approaches to describing the divine will present a extra complete understanding of this wealthy and complicated topic. This exploration continues within the following sections.
Ideas for Understanding Descriptions of the Divine
Cautious consideration of the next ideas will help in navigating the complexities of language utilized in describing the divine, fostering a extra nuanced and knowledgeable understanding.
Tip 1: Context is Key: At all times contemplate the historic, cultural, and non secular context through which particular descriptions are used. The identical phrase can carry vastly completely different connotations in several settings. For instance, “Lord” in a feudal society carries completely different implications than “Lord” in a contemporary democratic society.
Tip 2: Embrace Nuance: Acknowledge that descriptions of the divine are sometimes multi-layered and symbolic. Keep away from simplistic interpretations and be open to exploring the deeper meanings embedded inside spiritual language. Metaphors, for instance, require interpretation past their literal which means.
Tip 3: Respect Various Views: Completely different spiritual traditions and even completely different people throughout the identical custom could make use of completely different descriptions of the divine. Respect these various views and keep away from imposing one’s personal understanding as universally relevant. Acknowledge that completely different paths could result in the identical final actuality.
Tip 4: Acknowledge Limitations: Human language is inherently restricted in its capability to totally seize the essence of the divine. Settle for that descriptions, whereas useful, can by no means totally embody the divine nature. This humility avoids the pitfalls of literalism and fosters a extra open and receptive strategy.
Tip 5: Interact with Sacred Texts: Interact instantly with the sacred texts and first sources of various spiritual traditions. This direct engagement supplies a deeper understanding of how particular descriptions are used inside their respective theological frameworks.
Tip 6: Search Knowledgeable Steering: Consulting theological students and non secular leaders can supply priceless insights and steerage in navigating the complexities of spiritual language. Knowledgeable views can illuminate nuances and supply deeper understanding.
Tip 7: Mirror and Meditate: Private reflection and meditation on the varied descriptions of the divine can deepen understanding and foster a extra private connection. Contemplative practices can result in deeper insights and a extra nuanced appreciation of spiritual language.
By making use of the following tips, one can domesticate a extra knowledgeable and nuanced understanding of the language used to explain the divine. This understanding fosters higher appreciation for the wealthy tapestry of spiritual expression and facilitates extra significant engagement with theological ideas.
These insights present a basis for a deeper exploration of the particular methods through which completely different spiritual traditions make the most of language to precise their understanding of the divine. The concluding part will synthesize these key themes and supply closing reflections on the continuing human quest to understand and describe the divine.
Conclusion
Descriptive language utilized to the divine, encompassing attributes, qualities, traits, epithets, names, titles, representations, and metaphors, represents a posh interaction between human language and the try and articulate that which transcends human comprehension. This exploration has highlighted the significance of context, nuance, and respect for various views when deciphering such descriptions. The inherent limitations of human language to totally seize the divine essence necessitate an strategy that acknowledges symbolic illustration and metaphorical interpretation. Recognizing the cultural, historic, and theological influences embedded inside these descriptive phrases supplies essential insights into the evolution of spiritual thought and the various methods people have sought to grasp and relate to the divine. From summary attributes like omnipotence and omniscience to extra relatable qualities like mercy and justice, the language used shapes perceptions, fosters connection, and supplies a framework for theological discourse and private non secular expertise.
The continued human quest to explain the divine underscores a elementary drive to grasp and join with that which transcends the peculiar. Whereas language could by no means totally seize the divine essence, the very act of trying to articulate the divine nature displays a profound human eager for which means and connection. Continued exploration of those descriptive phrases, with sensitivity to context and nuance, supplies a pathway for deeper understanding and a richer appreciation for the various methods through which people have sought to precise their understanding of the divine all through historical past. This pursuit of understanding, although inherently restricted by human language, stays an important side of the continuing human non secular journey. Additional analysis and interfaith dialogue maintain the potential to deepen this understanding and foster higher appreciation for the wealthy tapestry of human makes an attempt to precise the ineffable.
