The core symbols we use for God represent what we take to be the highest good....These symbols or images shape our worldview, our ethical system, and our social practice--how we relate to one another.For instance, {Elizabeth A.} Johnson suggests that if a religion speaks about God as warrior, using militaristic language such as how "he crushes his enemies" and summoning people to become soldiers in God's army, then the people tend to become militaristic and aggressive.Likewise, if the symbol of God is that of a male king {without any balancing feminine imagery}, we become a culture that values and enthrones men and masculinity.
The symbols we associate with God reflect our understanding of the highest good and significantly influence our perspectives, ethics, and social interactions. For example, Elizabeth A. Johnson points out that when a religion portrays God as a warrior, promoting militaristic language, it tends to cultivate a culture that is aggressive and militarized, encouraging individuals to adopt violent behaviors in line with this imagery.
Similarly, if God is predominantly depicted as a male king without incorporating feminine symbols, society may develop a bias that prioritizes masculine values and dominance. This imbalance can lead to the marginalization of women and feminine qualities, shaping our cultural dynamics. The way we envision divinity thus has profound implications for our communal practices and personal identities.
