The concept of Bodily form in Christianity
Bodily form encompasses various interpretations across different belief systems. In Christianity, it refers to Jesus' physical ascension and his divine-human embodiment. Gnosticism presents it as the portrayal of Θάνατος, possibly linked to the King of the Dead. Protestantism views bodily form as a limitation of God's spiritual essence. The Catholic perspective discusses interactions between gods and humans, while Early Christianity emphasizes the physical manifestation of the divine through Jesus and the Virgin Mary, as well as the distinction between physical shape and soul.
Synonyms: Physical body, Physical form, Corporeal shape, Anatomical structure, Bodily shape, Physical structure, Physique, Figure, Frame, Build, Body shape, Body, Corporeal state, Physical shape, Structure.
In Dutch: Lichamelijke vorm; In Finnish: Kehon muoto; In Spanish: Forma corporal; In German: °Ã¶°ù±è±ð°ù´Ú´Ç°ù³¾; In Malay: Bentuk badan; In Swedish: Kroppsform; In French: Forme corporelle
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Bodily form'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This phrase is used to describe the physical appearance of individuals, suggesting that judgments and assistance should not be based on these superficial aspects.[1] (2) Refers to Jesus taking on human flesh during His incarnation.[2] (3) The manifestation of the Gospel through Christ during His sojourn with men.[3] (4) The physical manifestation of the divine in the Virgin.[4] (5) The physical embodiment of a being, particularly in reference to Jesus assuming human nature through the Virgin Mary.[5]
From: The city of God
(1) The text discusses the possibility of gods mingling with men in bodily form, contrasting this with the demons' interaction with humans and the implications of pollution.[6] (2) The bodily form is erect and looking heavenwards, admonishing man to mind the things that are above, setting humans apart from animals.[7]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) This refers to the physical appearance, which is not the basis of the Divine image, as the text explains, because God is Spirit.[8] (2) The bodily form of Jesus was uplifted from the earth during the Ascension until it disappeared in a cloud, according to the provided text.[9]
From: The Existence and Attributes of God
(1) A physical shape or representation that diminishes the spiritual nature of God.[10]
Gnostic concept of 'Bodily form'
From: The Gnostics and Their Remains
(1) This is the physical appearance of Θάνατος, which the poet brought forward on the stage, perhaps considering him the same with Aïdoneus, or King of the Dead.[11]