Metaphor and analogy in theology: a choice between lions and witches, and wardrobes?

Abstract

Through a reconsideration of metaphorical language in its relation to analogy, this essay brings into conversation the divergent currents of spirituality and theology. The author advocates a theological approach which values and appropriately employs both analogical and figurative language as the means for integrating the speculative and spiritual dimensions of theological discourse. In particular, by referring to the Christian mystical tradition, metaphor can be deployed as a creative modification of the standard triplex via of analogical predication.