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Definition:
Panentheism (pan-en-theos = "all-in-God") is often confused with pantheism
(although it can be thought of as a type of pantheism), and the term isn't heard very
often. It posits a god that interpenetrates every part of nature, but is nevertheless
fully distinct from nature. So this god is part of nature, but still retains an
independent identity.
What is the difference between standard pantheism and panentheism?
It is true that both panentheists and pantheists share the view that the universe and every natural thing in it is pervaded by divinity. However, since panentheism postulates that the universe is contained within God and not God in the universe, panentheists believe in a God who is present in everything but also extends beyond the universe.
In other words, God is greater than the universe. Often they also believe that this God has a mind, created the universe, and cares about each of us personally. Pantheists on the other hand believe that the universe itself is divine. They do not believe in personal or creator gods.
Panentheism differs from Deism, which only postulates a god separate from nature. It differs from pantheism in that the latter identifies God with nature, although it agrees with pantheism that the god includes nature as a part of its being. Leading panentheists in more recent times have included Albert Schweitzer and Alfred North Whitehead.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
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Related Resources:
What is the Philosophy of Religion?
Sometimes confused with theology, the Philosophy of Religion is the philosophical study of religious beliefs, religious doctrines, religious arguments and religious history. The line between theology and the philosophy of religion isn't always sharp, but the primary difference is that theology tends to be apologetical in nature, committed to the defense of particular religious positions, whereas Philosophy of Religion is committed to the investigation of religion itself, rather than the truth of any particular religion.
