Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

apophatic

adjective

/ˌæpəˈfætɪk/

Definition

Relating to the theological doctrine that attempts to define God by negation.

Examples

The apophatic approach to theology highlights the limitations of human understanding.
In various religious traditions, apophatic mysticism encourages followers to embrace the mystery of the divine.

Meaning

Apophatic refers to a way of talking about God that emphasizes what God is not, rather than what God is, suggesting that human language and concepts cannot fully capture the divine essence.