God as Relatio Subsistens: A Glossary of Terms

See here for terms in use: https://robertdryer.com/god-as-relatio-subsistens-7-categories-of-the-re-theory/

This is the Glossary of Terms for the Relational Essence Theory (“R”, “E”)

0. Action (theory within RE Theory)

Action: The principle that explains the intentional and relational activities of God within the Relational Essence (RE) Theory. In this framework, God’s actions are understood as intrinsically intentional, directly stemming from His divine nature and essence. These actions are fundamentally relational, reflecting God’s intrinsic relational nature within the Trinity (Relatio Subsistens). God’s actions are purposeful and directed towards specific ends, emphasizing a teleological orientation within the relational framework. The RE Theory maintains that God’s actions are not emanationist but are dynamic engagements with creation that preserve divine immutability and simplicity. This understanding integrates both temporal changes and the eternal relational presence of God, highlighting the interplay between God’s eternal nature and His engagement with the temporal processes of creation. The principle of action in the RE Theory underscores the purposeful, intentional, and relational nature of God’s interactions with the created order, ensuring a coherent and theologically sound explanation of divine activity.

1. Actualization

Actualization: The process by which potentialities within entities are realized or brought into being. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, actualization refers to the dynamic unfolding of inherent potentials through relational interactions. This concept emphasizes that the realization of potential states is fundamentally relational and occurs within the framework of divine providence and relational dynamics. Actualization involves the transition from a state of possibility to a state of reality, guided by the interconnectedness of all entities and their relational engagements. It also serves as a conceptual mechanism for dynamism, highlighting the continuous and evolving nature of relational processes.

2. Actualistic-like Worldview

Actualistic-like Worldview: A perspective within Catholic thought that interprets metaphysics through a synthesis of Aristotelianism, Neoplatonism, and other philosophical traditions, emphasizing the actuality of being and substance. This worldview characterizes the Catholic tradition’s approach to understanding reality, where metaphysical concepts are filtered and harmonized through a focus on actual existence and relational dynamics. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, this worldview maintains a substance-based ontology while integrating the dynamic and interconnected nature of relational interactions, reflecting the Church’s historical propensity to balance abstract potentialities with the concrete actuality of relational being.

In contradistinction, the RE Theory re-appropriates and reinterprets this traditional actualistic-like worldview by shifting the focus from substance to relationality as the foundational concept of reality. While the actualistic-like worldview centers on the actuality of being and substance, the RE Theory emphasizes the primacy of relational dynamics, viewing entities as fundamentally constituted by their relationships. This reinterpretation seeks to provide a more nuanced and dynamic understanding of existence, where relationality itself is the essence of all being. The RE Theory thus offers a relational ontology that moves beyond the potential static substance-based metaphysics, proposing a framework where the interconnectedness and ongoing interactions between entities are the core reality.

3. Analogical Framework

Analogical Framework: A conceptual approach that uses analogy to explain the relationships and interactions between divine and created realities. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, an analogical framework helps to bridge the gap between the infinite nature of God and the finite nature of creation. This framework posits that while divine relational dynamics are unique and perfect, created beings participate in these dynamics in an analogous way. The use of analogy allows for meaningful and coherent discourse about the similarities and differences between divine and created relationality, enhancing our understanding of both.

4. Analogia Entis

Analogia Entis: The analogy of being, a philosophical concept articulated by Erich Przywara, that describes the relationship between God and creation based on their similarity and dissimilarity. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, Analogia Entis is used to articulate how created beings reflect the relational nature of God in an analogous manner. This concept suggests that while there is a fundamental distinction between the Creator and creation, there is also a real participation of created beings in the relational essence of God. The analogy of being helps to explain how finite entities can partake in the infinite relational dynamics of the divine while maintaining their own distinct existence.

5. Causal Relations

Causal Relations: The interactions between entities that involve cause-and-effect dynamics. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, causal relations emphasize how different entities influence each other through their relational engagements. These relations are integral to understanding how changes occur within creation and how divine action interacts with the created order. Causal relations are seen as specific instances of relational dynamics where the effect of one entity’s action on another is highlighted, illustrating the interconnected and interdependent nature of all reality.

6. Causality

Causality: The principle that explains the relationship between causes and their effects. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, causality is understood as a relational process where the interactions between entities lead to changes and developments within the created order. This concept highlights that causality is not merely a mechanical or linear process but is deeply embedded in the relational framework that connects all entities. Divine causality is viewed as relational, where God’s will and actions bring about relational changes without compromising divine immutability or simplicity.

The RE Theory reinterprets causality through its relational ontology, emphasizing dynamic interactions and relational processes. Here are the key components of causality within the RE Theory. Relational Cause: Causality is seen as the outcome of relational interactions between entities. This includes both the divine relational influence and the interactions among created beings. Divine Relationality: God’s relational essence (Relatio Subsistens) is the ultimate source of all relational dynamics, meaning that God’s causality is inherently relational and interwoven with the fabric of creation. Temporal and Eternal Dynamics: The RE Theory considers both temporal changes and the eternal relational presence of God, suggesting that causality operates within both time-bound and timeless contexts.

The RE Theory’s relational causality provides a nuanced and comprehensive explanation of how entities influence each other. By focusing on relational dynamics, it captures the interconnected and interdependent nature of causal interactions. The incorporation of divine relationality ensures that causality is not seen as purely mechanical but as part of a greater, purposeful relational framework. This aligns well with the theological perspective that sees God’s interaction with creation as deeply relational. The relational approach is adaptable to different contexts, allowing for a dynamic understanding of how causes and effects unfold. This is particularly relevant in complex systems where interactions are not linear.

While Aristotle’s material and formal causes focus on the substance and form, the RE Theory integrates these aspects into the broader context of relational interactions. The material and formal aspects are seen as part of the relational web. The RE Theory expands on Aristotle’s efficient cause by emphasizing the relational nature of causality. It views the agent of change not just as an isolated entity but as part of an interconnected relational network. The RE Theory aligns well with Aristotle’s final cause by incorporating the purpose and goals of relational interactions. The teleological aspect is preserved and integrated into the relational framework.

The RE Theory maintains philosophical coherence by providing a clear and structured relational framework for understanding causality. It avoids the pitfalls of reductionism by emphasizing the complexity and interdependence of relational dynamics. Theologically, it aligns with the notion of divine simplicity and the relational nature of God, ensuring that the explanation of causality does not contradict core theological principles.

Causal Relations: Causal relations involve the cause-and-effect dynamics within creation, governed by divine providence. In classical theism, God is understood as the ultimate efficient cause (the source and sustainer of all that exists) and the final cause (the ultimate purpose and end toward which all creation is directed). These relations highlight God’s sovereignty and active involvement in the world while maintaining His immutable nature, as God’s causal actions do not imply any change within His essence.

7. Catechism of the Catholic Church

Catechism of the Catholic Church: The official compendium of Catholic doctrine that systematically presents the teachings of the Church. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, the Catechism serves as an authoritative source that grounds the theological aspects of the theory. It provides doctrinal clarity and support for concepts such as the Trinity, divine simplicity, and relationality. The RE Theory aligns its metaphysical and theological claims with the teachings found in the Catechism to ensure coherence with orthodox Catholic beliefs.

8. Church Doctors

Church Doctors: Eminent theologians and saints whose teachings are considered authoritative and foundational within the Catholic Church. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, the insights of Church Doctors like St. Augustine and St. Thomas Aquinas are integral to developing and supporting the theory. Their works provide deep theological and philosophical reflections that help articulate the relational nature of God and creation. The RE Theory draws upon their writings to ensure that its concepts are deeply rooted in the tradition and wisdom of the Church.

9. Creator-Creation Distinction

Creator-Creation Distinction: The fundamental theological principle that distinguishes between God (the Creator) and the created order (creation). In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, this distinction is crucial for maintaining the integrity of both divine transcendence and immanence. The Creator is understood as fundamentally relational, yet wholly other and self-sufficient, while creation is relationally dependent on God. This distinction ensures that the relational dynamics within creation do not compromise the unique and unchanging essence of God, preserving the theological coherence of the RE Theory.

God’s engagement with the world is rooted in His relational essence (Relatio Subsistens), where His actions in the world are extensions of His intrinsic relational nature within the Trinity. Central to this understanding is the doctrine of divine simplicity, which affirms that God is not composed of parts but is wholly unified. Thus, His relational nature is an integral aspect of His simple essence. The metaphysical details of this relational being are thoroughly articulated in the RE Theory and its use of the eight categories, which contextualize and distinguish the various aspects of divine and created relations.

10. Denzinger Text

Denzinger Text: A comprehensive compilation of key theological statements and dogmas of the Catholic Church, often referred to as “Enchiridion Symbolorum.” In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, the Denzinger Text serves as an authoritative reference that supports and validates the theory’s alignment with Catholic doctrine. It provides essential doctrinal clarity on concepts such as the Trinity, divine simplicity, and relationality, ensuring that the RE Theory remains coherent with the established teachings of the Church.

11. Divine Attributes

Divine Attributes: The inherent qualities or characteristics of God that define His nature. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, divine attributes are understood as expressions of God’s relational essence. Attributes such as omnipotence, omniscience, and omnipresence are seen as relationally grounded, emphasizing that God’s interactions with creation are manifestations of these inherent qualities. The RE Theory aligns the discussion of divine attributes with the relational dynamics within the Trinity and between God and creation.

12. Divine Nature

Divine Nature: The inherent essence or being of God, characterized by relationality in the Relational Essence (RE) Theory. This concept emphasizes that God’s nature is fundamentally relational, as expressed in the unity and distinction within the Trinity. The divine nature encompasses all of God’s attributes and actions, which are understood as relationally constituted. The RE Theory views the divine nature as simple, unified, and dynamically relational, ensuring coherence with traditional Catholic teachings.

13. Divine Simplicity

Divine Simplicity: The doctrine that God is not composed of parts and is wholly unified. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, divine simplicity is fundamental to understanding God’s relational essence. This doctrine affirms that God’s relational nature is an integral aspect of His simple essence, without division or complexity. The RE Theory uses divine simplicity to explain how God’s relational interactions with creation are expressions of His unified nature, maintaining theological coherence.

14. Election

Election: The divine act of choosing or predestining individuals or groups for a particular purpose or destiny. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, election is understood as an extension of God’s intrinsic relational nature within the Trinity. This concept emphasizes that God’s acts of election and predestination flow from His relational essence, rather than altering it. The RE Theory situates election within the broader framework of relational dynamics, highlighting how divine providence and relational engagement guide the fulfillment of God’s purposes.

15. Essence

Essence: The fundamental nature or underlying reality of a being. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, essence is understood as inherently relational, particularly with reference to God. God’s essence, described as “Relatio Subsistens,” signifies that relationality is at the core of His being. This relational essence is constant and unchanging, forming the basis for all intrinsic and extrinsic relations. The RE Theory emphasizes that the essence of God and created beings is defined through their relational interactions.

Eternal Now: The eternal now is a concept that describes God’s existence as encompassing all moments of time simultaneously. Unlike temporal beings, who experience time as a sequence of past, present, and future, God exists in a timeless present where all moments are fully present to Him at once. This eternal now allows God to interact with creation without undergoing change, as His existence is not subject to temporal succession. It is a crucial aspect of understanding God’s immutable nature. In my own work on time and eternity, I use the eternal now concept to refer to God’s unique ontological status when it comes to being his own ordering principal so he stands subject to no thing, but is his relations.

16. Eternal Relations

Eternal Relations: The relational dynamics within the eternal now of God, emphasizing His timeless existence. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, eternal relations describe the perfect and fully actualized relational interactions within the Trinity. These relations are characterized by mutual indwelling and dynamic unity, transcending temporal constraints. The RE Theory uses the concept of eternal relations to explain how God’s interactions with the temporal world are rooted in His timeless and immutable nature.

17. Existence

Existence: The state or condition of being, particularly within the framework of relational ontology. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, existence is defined by relational interactions. An entity’s existence is constituted by its participation in relational dynamics with other entities and with God. The RE Theory posits that existence is fundamentally relational, emphasizing the interconnectedness and interdependence of all beings within the divine relational framework.

18. Extrinsic Relations

Extrinsic Relations: The relational dynamics between God and creation, as well as between created entities. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, extrinsic relations highlight how God interacts dynamically with the world while remaining ontologically distinct and immutable. These relations are external to God’s essence but are essential for understanding how divine providence and sustenance operate within the created order. Extrinsic relations emphasize the continuous and dynamic engagement of God with creation, preserving the Creator-creation distinction.

In my work on time and eternity this distinction between intrinsic and extrinsic relations is crucial for understanding how God can interact with the temporal world while remaining immutable.

19. Hyperrelations

Hyperrelations: The mutual indwelling and fully actualized relational dynamics within the Trinity. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, hyperrelations describe the unique and eternal interactions between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. These relations are characterized by perfect unity and distinction, exemplifying the relational essence of God. The concept of hyperrelations is used to explain the profound and incomprehensible nature of divine relationality, which serves as the ultimate model for all other relational dynamics in creation.

20. Identity

Identity: The distinctiveness of an entity as defined by its relational interactions. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, identity is fundamentally relational, meaning that an entity’s unique characteristics and existence are constituted by its relationships with other entities and with God. This concept emphasizes that identity is not static but dynamic, evolving through continuous relational engagements. The RE Theory posits that identity is shaped and sustained by the network of relational interactions within the divine and created order.

21. Immanence

Immanence: The aspect of God’s nature that denotes His presence and activity within creation. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, immanence emphasizes that God is actively involved in the world, sustaining and guiding it through relational dynamics. This concept highlights that while God is transcendent and ontologically distinct from creation, He is also intimately present and engaged with the relational processes of the created order. The RE Theory integrates immanence with relational ontology to explain how God interacts with creation without compromising His transcendence.

22. Immutability

Immutability: The doctrine that God is unchanging in His essence, attributes, and purposes. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, immutability is maintained even as God engages dynamically with creation. The theory posits that God’s relational interactions do not imply change or dependency in His nature but are expressions of His immutable and relational essence. Immutability ensures that God’s relationality does not alter His fundamental nature, preserving theological coherence while emphasizing dynamic engagement.

Immutability ensures that God is always the same, reliable, and perfect in His being and actions and relations.

23. Intrinsic Relations

Intrinsic Relations: The internal relational dynamics within the Trinity. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, intrinsic relations are foundational and constitutive of God’s very essence. These relations, characterized by perfect unity and mutual indwelling between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, define the relational nature of God. Intrinsic relations highlight how the distinct persons of the Trinity are relationally unified, providing a model for understanding divine simplicity and relationality. The RE Theory uses intrinsic relations to explain the eternal and unchanging nature of God’s relational essence.

Measure: In classical theism, time is defined as a measure of movement or change. It reflects the sequence of events from past to present to future and is characterized by change and succession. Time, as a measure, helps to quantify and understand the progression of events within the created order. This concept is crucial for contrasting the mutable nature of temporal existence with God’s eternal, unchanging nature. Understanding time as a measure allows for a clearer distinction between the created world’s temporal dynamics and God’s timeless existence.

24. Metaphysics

Metaphysics: The branch of philosophy that deals with the fundamental nature of reality, including concepts such as being, existence, and the nature of entities. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, metaphysics explores the relational foundations of all reality, emphasizing that relationality is the core principle that constitutes existence. The RE Theory uses metaphysical inquiry to articulate how entities are relationally defined and interconnected, providing a comprehensive framework that integrates theological and philosophical insights into the nature of God and creation.

25. Modal Relations

Modal Relations: The potentialities and necessities within the created order, understanding how entities possess potential states that are actualized or necessarily constrained. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, modal relations highlight how entities have inherent potentials that unfold through relational interactions and are guided by divine providence. This concept emphasizes that the actualization of potential states is fundamentally relational, occurring within a framework that respects both the contingencies and necessities of created beings. Modal relations provide a structured understanding of how possibilities become realities within the relational dynamics of the world.

26. Mutual Indwelling

Mutual Indwelling: The concept of perichoresis, where the divine Persons of the Trinity interpenetrate and dwell within each other perfectly and fully. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, mutual indwelling is central to understanding the intrinsic relations within the Trinity. This concept illustrates how the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct yet unified in their relational essence. Mutual indwelling exemplifies the perfect relational unity of God, serving as a model for all other relational dynamics. The RE Theory uses this concept to explain the depth of divine relationality and its implications for the nature of reality.

27. Mysteries Proper

Mysteries Proper: The theological mysteries that are foundational to the Christian faith, which, while not fully comprehensible, are embraced within the framework of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory. These mysteries include the Trinity, the Incarnation, and the divine attributes. In the RE Theory, mysteries proper are understood as aspects of divine reality that transcend human understanding but are accessible through relational engagement and theological reflection. This concept emphasizes the balance between faith and reason, recognizing that some truths about God and creation are deeply relational and inherently mysterious. The RE Theory seeks to elucidate these mysteries through its relational ontology while respecting their profound and incomprehensible nature.

28. Nothing

Nothing (in Theology): In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, “Nothing” signifies God’s relational simplicity within the Trinity. This term refers to the unity of the divine Persons that transcends and is; presence that pervades; relations that unify; and the perfection of this unity as ultimate reality. This concept, encapsulated in divine simplicity, transcends mere knowing. It resonates with the profound insights of various theological traditions, including the thought of Eriugena, who articulated that the “Nothing” of ultimate Goodness refers to the “Super-essentiality and Supernaturality of the Divine Goodness” (Periphyseon Book 3, section 684D). In the RE Theory, “Nothing” captures the ineffable nature of the Divine, recognizing the transcendence, immanence, unity, and relational realization that characterize the Divine Nature. It invites contemplation and reverence of the ultimate Good, serving as a device for negative theology and fitting within the framework of the RE Theory.

29. Ontology

Ontology: The branch of metaphysics concerned with the nature and relations of being. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, ontology focuses on understanding existence through the lens of relationality. This approach posits that the fundamental nature of all entities is defined by their relational interactions. The RE Theory’s ontology emphasizes that being and essence are constituted through dynamic relationships, both within the divine (intrinsic relations) and between the divine and creation (extrinsic relations).

30. Perichoresis

Perichoresis: The mutual indwelling and interpenetration of the divine Persons of the Trinity. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, perichoresis exemplifies the perfect relational unity of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. This concept is central to understanding the intrinsic relations within the Trinity, where each Person is distinct yet fully united in essence. Perichoresis serves as a model for relational dynamics, demonstrating how relationality is foundational to the divine nature.

31. Potentiality

Potentiality: The inherent capability or possibility within an entity to develop or actualize in a certain way. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, potentiality is understood as a dynamic state that exists within entities and is realized through relational interactions. The concept emphasizes that the actualization of potential states is fundamentally relational, occurring within the framework of divine providence and the interconnectedness of all entities. Potentiality highlights the capacity for growth and change within the relational dynamics of the world.

32. Predestination

Predestination: The divine act of foreordaining certain individuals or groups to a specific end or destiny, particularly in terms of salvation. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, predestination is understood as an extension of God’s intrinsic relational nature within the Trinity. This concept emphasizes that God’s acts of predestination flow from His relational essence and are directed towards the fulfillment of divine purposes. The RE Theory situates predestination within the broader framework of relational dynamics, highlighting how divine providence guides the realization of God’s relational engagement with creation.

The latent Catholicism the RE theory is committed to also acknowledges that God‘s predestination, such that it relates to election as well, means there is a balance between transcendence and eminence, and any relation or ordering principle of God, never collapses such concepts into a pure determinism or a pure on restrained freedom. Rather, the balance is in a mystery proper, where God’s divine hidden us is necessarily ethical and loving. this balance also goes with God’s providence.

33. Providence

Providence: The divine governance and guidance of all creation by God. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, providence is understood as the relational framework through which God sustains, directs, and fulfills the purposes of creation. This concept emphasizes that God’s providential care is inherently relational, involving continuous interaction with the world. Providence ensures that all events and entities are interconnected within God’s overarching relational plan.

34. Providential Care

Providential Care: The aspect of divine providence that specifically pertains to God’s loving and attentive care for creation. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, providential care highlights the relational dynamics through which God nurtures, protects, and guides created beings. This care is seen as a manifestation of God’s relational essence, where the divine presence and action are continuously involved in the well-being and flourishing of creation. Providential care underscores the intimate and relational nature of God’s engagement with the world.

35. Quantum Superposition

Quantum Superposition: A principle in quantum mechanics where particles exist in multiple states simultaneously until measured. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, quantum superposition is seen as a reflection of the inherent potentialities and indeterminacies within creation. This concept illustrates the dynamic and relational nature of existence, where relational interactions determine the actualization of potential states. The RE Theory uses quantum superposition to highlight the complexity and interconnectedness of relational dynamics at the fundamental level of reality.

36. Relational Dynamics

Relational Dynamics: The processes and interactions through which entities relate to and influence one another. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, relational dynamics are foundational to understanding how existence, essence, and identity are constituted. These dynamics involve both intrinsic relations within the divine (such as perichoresis) and extrinsic relations between God and creation. Relational dynamics emphasize that reality is a network of interdependent relationships, constantly evolving and actualizing through relational interactions.

37. Relational Engagement

Relational Engagement: The active and dynamic interaction between entities within the framework of relational ontology. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, relational engagement describes how God interacts with creation and how created beings interact with each other. This engagement is characterized by mutual influence, growth, and development within the relational context. Relational engagement underscores the importance of participation and interconnectedness in the unfolding of potentialities and the realization of divine purposes.

38. Relational Essence (RE) Theory

Relational Essence (RE) Theory: A comprehensive theological and metaphysical framework that posits relationality as the foundational aspect of all reality. At its core, the RE Theory asserts that God’s essence is inherently relational, encapsulated in the term “Relatio Subsistens,” meaning that God’s being is fundamentally characterized by relationality. This theory integrates deeply informed Catholic theology with a focus on the dynamic interactions within the Trinity (intrinsic relations) and between God and creation (extrinsic relations).

Key Principles:

1. **Relational Ontology**: The RE Theory emphasizes that the essence, existence, and identity of all entities are constituted through their relational interactions. This contrasts with traditional substance-based metaphysics, proposing instead that relationality is the primary explanatory framework for understanding reality.

2. **Divine Simplicity and Relationality**: The theory upholds the doctrine of divine simplicity, affirming that God is not composed of parts but is wholly unified. Within this unity, God’s relational nature is seen as integral, with the relational dynamics within the Trinity exemplifying this simplicity and unity.

3. **Perichoresis**: The mutual indwelling and interpenetration of the divine Persons of the Trinity serve as the model for all relational dynamics. The RE Theory uses perichoresis to explain the perfect unity and distinction within the Godhead, demonstrating how relationality is central to divine nature.

4. **Providence and Providential Care**: God’s engagement with creation is viewed through the lens of relational providence. The theory posits that God’s providential care is a continuous, dynamic interaction that sustains and directs creation toward its ultimate fulfillment, grounded in relational essence.

5. **Intrinsic and Extrinsic Relations**: The theory distinguishes between intrinsic relations (within the Trinity) and extrinsic relations (between God and creation). Intrinsic relations highlight the internal relational nature of God, while extrinsic relations describe how God’s relational essence extends to and engages with the created order.

6. **Dynamic Actualization**: Relational dynamics are seen as the processes through which potentialities within entities are realized. The RE Theory emphasizes that actualization occurs through relational interactions, underscoring the continuous and evolving nature of reality.

7. **Integration with Catholic Doctrine**: The RE Theory aligns with traditional Catholic teachings, drawing on sources such as the Catechism of the Catholic Church, the writings of Church Doctors, and the Denzinger Text. It aims to enhance the understanding of these doctrines through the lens of relationality, providing a cohesive and theologically sound perspective.

8. **Mysteries Proper and Analogical Participation**: The theory acknowledges the profound mysteries of faith, such as the Trinity and the Incarnation, as central to its framework. It uses analogical language to describe the participation of creation in divine relational dynamics, recognizing the limits of human understanding while offering a meaningful explanatory model.

By positioning relationality at the heart of theological and metaphysical inquiry, the Relational Essence (RE) Theory offers a nuanced and principled approach to understanding the nature of God and reality. It seeks to provide a coherent and dynamic framework that integrates deeply informed Catholic theology with a relational ontology, enhancing both philosophical and theological insights.

39. Relational Framework

Relational Framework: The structural context within which relational interactions occur, as posited by the Relational Essence (RE) Theory. This framework encompasses both the intrinsic relations within the Trinity and the extrinsic relations between God and creation. In the RE Theory, the relational framework provides the basis for understanding how entities exist, interact, and actualize their potentialities through dynamic relational processes. It emphasizes the interconnectedness and interdependence of all beings within the divine and created order, serving as the foundational context for the unfolding of relational dynamics and divine providence.

40. Relational Ontology

Relational Ontology: A philosophical approach that defines the nature of being and existence through relational interactions. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, relational ontology posits that the essence and existence of all entities are constituted by their relationships with other entities and with God. This contrasts with traditional substance-based metaphysics by emphasizing that relationality is the primary explanatory principle for understanding reality. Relational ontology in the RE Theory underscores that entities are not isolated substances but are fundamentally interconnected through dynamic and evolving relational dynamics.

41. Relational Potentiality

Relational Potentiality: The inherent capabilities or possibilities within entities that are realized through relational interactions. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, relational potentiality emphasizes that the actualization of potential states is fundamentally relational, occurring within the context of divine providence and the interconnectedness of all beings. This concept highlights the dynamic and evolving nature of reality, where potentialities are actualized through continuous relational engagement. Relational potentiality serves as a key aspect of the RE Theory, illustrating how entities develop, grow, and fulfill their purposes through their relational interactions within the divine and created order.

42. Relatio Subsistens

Relatio Subsistens: A term used in the Relational Essence (RE) Theory to describe God as the subsisting relation, emphasizing that God’s very essence is relational. This concept asserts that God’s being is fundamentally characterized by relationality, where the divine nature is fully actualized through intrinsic relational dynamics within the Trinity. Relatio Subsistens encapsulates the unity and distinction of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, highlighting that God’s essence is relationally constituted.

A Christological example of Relatio Subsistens is seen in the Incarnation, where the subsistence of Christ, who is the subsistence of the divinity, also became the subsistence of the flesh. This dual subsistence illustrates how the divine relational essence is extended into the created order. In the Incarnation, Christ maintains the relational unity with the Father and the Holy Spirit while fully assuming human nature. This example underscores that relationality is not limited to the divine realm but also encompasses the relational engagement between the divine and the human, fully actualized in the person of Christ.

In the context of the RE Theory, Relatio Subsistens serves as a foundational concept that explains the nature of God’s interactions with the world. It emphasizes that God’s relational essence is the basis for all divine actions and engagements, whether within the Trinity or with creation. This concept supports the coherence of the RE Theory by providing a unified understanding of divine simplicity, relational ontology, and the dynamic actualization of relational potentialities. Relatio Subsistens highlights the continuous and intimate involvement of God in the relational processes that constitute reality.

43. Substance

Substance: In traditional metaphysics, substance refers to the underlying reality that supports and unifies the properties and attributes of an entity. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, substance is reinterpreted through relational dynamics. The RE Theory posits that substance is not an independent entity but is relationally constituted. This means that the substance of any entity, including God, is understood in terms of its relational interactions. For God, divine substance is the perfect relational unity of the Trinity, where relationality is the essence that underpins and unifies the divine Persons.

44. Temporal Relations

Temporal Relations: The relational dynamics involving time and change within creation. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, temporal relations describe how entities interact and actualize their potentialities within the framework of time. These relations emphasize the sequential and developmental aspects of relational interactions, highlighting how created beings undergo change and growth. Temporal relations are understood as part of the broader relational framework, where God’s eternal and unchanging nature interacts dynamically with the temporal processes of creation.

While temporal relations involve the measurement of change, following Aquinas’ and Aristotle’s definition of time as “the number of movement in respect of before and after,” they are distinct from the metaphysical concept of causality. Unlike cause and effect, where an effect cannot precede its cause, temporal relations do not necessarily adhere to this constraint. Temporal shifts and variations can occur without logical contradiction because time is not a fundamental entity but a relational framework within which changes and interactions are measured. This distinction underscores that in the RE Theory, temporal relations are nuanced to account for the dynamic and flexible nature of time, independent of the rigid structures of some senses of causality.

45. Theological Coherence

Theological Coherence: The consistency and logical integration of theological concepts within a framework. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, theological coherence is achieved by aligning relational ontology with traditional Catholic doctrines. This involves ensuring that key theological principles, such as divine simplicity, the Trinity, and providence, are integrated into a cohesive relational framework. The RE Theory seeks to provide a unified and coherent understanding of divine and created realities, emphasizing that relationality is the foundational principle that ties together various theological concepts.

46. Transcendence

Transcendence: The aspect of God’s nature that denotes His existence and attributes as beyond and independent from the created order. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, transcendence emphasizes that God is wholly other and ontologically distinct from creation. This concept underscores that while God is intimately involved in relational interactions with the world, His essence remains unbounded by temporal and spatial limitations. Transcendence highlights the supreme and incomprehensible nature of God, who transcends all created categories and distinctions.

47. Transcendent

Transcendent: Refers to the quality of being beyond and independent from the material universe. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, God is described as transcendent, meaning that His relational essence exists beyond the confines of time, space, and creation. This term underscores the supreme and ultimate nature of God, who is not subject to the limitations and changes of the created order. The RE Theory maintains that while God is transcendent, He is also immanently present and relationally engaged with creation.

48. Trinity

Trinity: The Christian doctrine that describes God as one essence in three Persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. In the context of the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, the Trinity exemplifies the perfect relational unity and distinction within the divine nature. The RE Theory uses the concept of perichoresis to explain how the relational dynamics of mutual indwelling between the divine Persons constitute the essence of God. The Trinity serves as the ultimate model of relationality, where the divine nature is fully actualized through intrinsic relational interactions.

1. Truth

Under the RE theory it’s implied that its actually commuted to something like a “Relational Correspondence” Theory of Truth, which can be defined as an understanding of truth that posits truth as the correspondence and coherence of all relational dynamics. Grounded in the relational essence of God (Relatio Subsistens), truth is seen as originating from God’s nature, His Word, and His Law. This absolute truth is fully manifested in Jesus Christ, who embodies divine relationality in both divine and human nature. Human understanding of truth involves aligning with these divine relational dynamics through faith and reason, acknowledging that truth evolves as relational knowledge and experience grow. This view integrates the absolute nature of divine truth with the dynamic, relational processes of the created order.

50. Unity and Distinction

Unity and Distinction: The theological principle that describes the relational harmony and differentiation within the divine nature. In the Relational Essence (RE) Theory, unity and distinction refer to the perfect relational balance within the Trinity, where the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are distinct Persons yet fully united in essence. This concept is central to understanding the relational dynamics that define the divine nature. The RE Theory posits that unity and distinction are not contradictory but are harmoniously integrated through relational interactions, providing a model for understanding the relational essence of all reality.