noun

theologian

thee-uh-LOH-jun/ˌθiːəˈləʊdʒən/

A specialist in the study of religious beliefs and teachings.

The theologian compares religious reference works and a doctrinal diagram.

An older scholar compares two religious reference volumes at a desk, studying a Christian doctrinal diagram rather than praying or conducting worship.

Etymology

theoGreekgod

+logGreektreating of

+ianOld Frenchperson concerned with

The Greek pieces evoke someone discoursing on the gods. As theology came to mean the systematic study of God and religious doctrine, a theologian was someone skilled in that study.

In context

fusmadison34:34

a progressive Christian Theologian argued that the problem with people is the tension between our creaturely and divine sides

Worship Service Sunday May 22nd 11am

More examples

Several theologians debated the interpretation.
She trained as a theologian.
The book draws on the work of a medieval theologian.

Forms

theologian · theologians

theology noun — the study of religious beliefs

Similar words

clergyperson: A clergyperson holds a religious office; a theologian specializes in studying religious thought and need not hold that office.
philosopher: A philosopher studies fundamental questions broadly; a theologian focuses on religious beliefs and teachings.