ANTHROPOMORPHISM
What Is the Concept of Anthropomorphism in the Bible?
This is the name of a figure of speech whereby things are described in human terms. The word derives from the Greek anthropos (man) and morphe (form), hence man-form.
Because God is "spirit" (Jn. 4:24) and we are not capable of understanding spirit qualities, the Scriptures accommodate our level of comprehension by the use of symbolism. Hence, biblical writers speak of the hands, eyes, and ears of God (Isa. 59:1-2; Heb. 4:13). It is erroneous to contend, as Mormons do, that God is a physical being (cf. Hos. 11:9; Mt. 16:17).
Because God is "spirit" (Jn. 4:24) and we are not capable of understanding spirit qualities, the Scriptures accommodate our level of comprehension by the use of symbolism. Hence, biblical writers speak of the hands, eyes, and ears of God (Isa. 59:1-2; Heb. 4:13). It is erroneous to contend, as Mormons do, that God is a physical being (cf. Hos. 11:9; Mt. 16:17).
