OMNIBENEVOLENCE Meaning and
Definition
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Omnibenevolence, a concept derived from the Latin words "omni," meaning all, and "benevolentia," meaning kindness or goodwill, is a philosophical term used to describe the belief or attribute of being all-loving, perfectly good, or completely benevolent. It is often associated with the nature or characteristic of a divine being, particularly in religious contexts.
In theological discussions, omnibenevolence refers to the belief that a higher power, such as a god or deity, possesses an infinite and unconditional love for all of creation. This concept implies that the entity only desires good for every individual and seeks their well-being without any discriminatory or selfish intentions. It encompasses qualities such as compassion, mercy, kindness, and generosity.
However, the notion of omnibenevolence can lead to philosophical debates and paradoxes, especially when considering the existence of evil, suffering, and moral dilemmas in the world. Critics argue that if a deity is truly omnibenevolent, it must intervene to prevent all harm and ensure universal happiness, which contradicts the presence of suffering and evil.
Nonetheless, omnibenevolence remains a central concept in various religious traditions, forming a significant part of their theology and understanding of the divine nature. It serves as a basis for moral guidance, ethical principles, and the belief in a benevolent higher power that governs and cares for the world and its inhabitants.
Etymology of OMNIBENEVOLENCE
The word "omnibenevolence" is derived from Latin roots.
"Omni" comes from the Latin word "omnis", which means "all" or "every". This root is commonly used in English words to convey the meaning of something that is all-encompassing or universal.
The second part of the word, "benevolence", also has Latin origins. It is derived from the Latin word "benevolentia", which is a combination of "bene" (meaning "well" or "good") and "volentia" (meaning "will" or "desire"). Thus, "benevolence" refers to a disposition or inclination towards doing good or being inclined to help others.
