Pamphlet recommends using inclusive language for God
By Paula R. Kincaid, The Layman Online, July 18, 2000
LOUISVILLE — “The Bible uses many metaphors for God,” reads the pamphlet given out to participants of the workshop “Recreation: Becoming Who We Are Through Feminist Theology.”
“Terms such as Father, Mother or Parent are personal metaphors for God,” reads the pamphlet. Other metaphors suggested in the pamphlet are Creator, Shepherd, Provider, Deliverer, Judge, Spirit, Woman in Search of a Coin, Sustainer, Liberator, Potter and Nurse. Metaphors drawn from nature include God of Vision, Light of Life, Eagle, Rock of Salvation, Source of Life and Mother-hen.
The pamphlet, titled “Well Chosen Words: Choosing Words to Include All God’s People,” was written and produced by the Women’s Ministry Program Area of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
Titles for Jesus
The pamphlet says that “Jesus incorporates the humanity of both women and men and many terms are used to emphasize his humanity.” They include Brother, Prophet, Son of Mary, Healer, Example, Friend, and Teacher.
“Metaphors for Jesus’ divine presence in our lives,” according to the pamphlet, include: Alpha & Omega, Bread of Life, Cornerstone, Lamb, The Door, The Truth, True Vine and Wisdom.
As for the Holy Spirit, these metaphors are listed: Advocate, Convincer, Counselor, Helper, Energizer, Illuminator, Motivator, Sanctifier and Transformer. Metaphors from nature include Breath, Dove, Wind and Fire.
Why words matter
The section titled “Why Words Matter” says, “Inclusive language is needed because: words, and the images they provoke, have the power to shape our beliefs and attitudes; male-dominated language creates and reinforces a hierarchical order in which women are regarded as subordinate; and words indicate our basic belief and assumptions about ourselves, about others and about God.
“Inclusive language avoids words that exclude or stereotype women, racial ethnic persons, older persons, persons with disabilities or persons who are in any way different from the speaker.
“Words which assume that one portion of humanity or one human condition is the norm for all humanity call into question the essential value of all others.”
The pamphlet includes “Guidelines for Speaking and Writing about God’s People.” The guidelines recommend against using brother(s), brotherhood, fellowship, man, man’s, men, mankind, Sons (of God) and Chairman. “Masculine-biased words can deeply offend and hurt. They can cause some people to feel cut off from full participation in the church.”
Suggestions that “include all” are brothers and sisters, friends, family, neighbors, humankind, communion, humanity, people, sons and daughters, children of God, and chair or chairperson.