Apophatic Theology.
It is probable that Gregory was influenced by Clement of
Alexandria in his use of apophatic theology. The two theologians are similar not
only in their terminology, but also in their use of Biblical texts. Gregory
greatly modifies the agnostic tone which is sometimes evident in Clement's
writings.
Gregory seems to consider that apophatic theology, definition
by negation, is more effective than cataphatic definition, which provides
knowledge through analogy. This is because all analogies are imperfect and
misleading. "Even when a small similarity is found, much more is lost, and I am
left unenlightened and only with that which has been chosen for comparison." In
apophatic theology a more exact description of the ineffable mysteries which are
revealed in contemplation is given through negation.
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