Patriology (Christianity)

In Christian theology, term Patriology refers to the study of the God the Father. The word Patriology comes from two Greek words: πατέρας (pateras, father) and λογος (logos, teaching about). As a theological discipline, Patriology is closely connected to Christology (study of Christ as God the Son) and Pneumatology (study of Holy Ghost as God the Spirit).

The term Patriology should not be confused with similar term Patrology that involves the study of teachings of the Church Fathers.

There are three basic forms of the name of God the Father in the New Testament: Theos (θεός the Greek woed for God), Kyrios (i.e. Lord in Greek) and Pateras (πατέρας i.e. Father in Greek). Also, the Aramaic word "Abba" (אבא), meaning "Father" is used in and in Romans 8:15 and Galatians 4:6. The word for Father was chosen to coin the name of the discipline because Patriology involves particular studies of the person of God the Father, and the works of the Father.

Different Christian denominations have different theological approaches to various patriological issues, concerning the person and works of God the Father.

Christian Patriology is primarily based on the study and interpretation of Bible verses that are referring to God as "Father". In the Old Testament, God is called "Father" mainly in metaforical sense. The God is seen as "Father" to all men because he created the world (and in that sense "fathered" the world). In the Hebrew Scriptures, in Isaiah 63:16 (JP) it reads: "For You are our father, for Abraham did not know us, neither did Israel recognize us; You, O Lord, are our father; our redeemer of old is your name." According to Judaism, God is attributed with fatherly role of protector. He is titled the Father of the poor, of the widows and orphans. He is also titled the Father of the king, as the teacher and helper over the judge of Israel. In the Old Testament term "Father" when used for God is a metaphor. It is not a proper name for God but just one of many titles by which Jews speak of and to God.

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