Analogical language is an effective solution to the problem of religious language. However, the literature contains many criticisms, generally arguing that analogy is insufficient for bridging the gap between God and human beings. In this paper, I respond to these criticisms by proposing that analogy should not be understood in isolation but as part of a larger metaphysical and theological system. Specifically, I argue that Erich Przywara’s work on the analogia entis provides a necessary metaphysical framework for understanding analogy.
The analogia entis is not unique to Przywara; rather, it summarizes a variety of approaches the church has taken to the relationship between God and creation. I strengthen this framework by incorporating elements of Karl Barth’s theology. Though Barth rejected the analogia entis, he emphasized the role of divine initiative in revelation—God desires to be known. I argue that analogy is an effective means of speaking about God because God knows his own character, has freely created a world that reflects his nature, and speaks truthfully in revelation. Analogical language is not humanity’s attempt to reason from creation to God; rather, analogy describes how God has created a world that imperfectly reflects his nature.
This paper engages contemporary research on religious language and the doctrine of God, offering an overtly theological solution to the philosophical problem of religious language.