Why is God omnipresent? Understand the question

In the midst of theological and philosophical discussions about the nature of God, one of the characteristics often attributed to Him is omnipresence. But what exactly does it mean to say that God is omnipresent? Why is this characteristic so fundamental to many religious traditions? 

The Concept of Omnipresence

The word omnipresence derives from the Latin omnipraesentia, which means be everywhere. When we say that God is omnipresent, we are saying that he is present everywhere at the same time, transcends space and is not limited by the physical constraints of the universe.

This notion of omnipresence is deeply rooted in many religious traditions, including Christianity, Judaism and Islam, among others. The idea that God is present everywhere is a source of consolation and hope for many believers, as it means that they are never alone, no matter where they are or what circumstances they find themselves in.

Why is God Omnipresent?

The question of why God is omnipresent is complex and multifaceted, and the answers vary according to religious traditions and theological interpretations. However, there are some widely accepted reasons that help explain this divine characteristic:

1. divine transcendence

Divine transcendence is a central concept in many religious traditions, including Christianity, Judaism, Islam, Hinduism and several others. It refers to the idea that God is beyond or above material creation, transcending the limitations of space, time and even human understanding. The notion of divine transcendence implies that God is not confined to the natural laws that govern the physical universe, but is beyond them.

In the context of divine omnipresence, God's transcendence means that he is not limited by any space. While human beings are subject to physical location and distance, God is not restricted to any specific place. He is not confined to a temple, church, mosque or sacred mountain. He is infinite and eternal, and His presence permeates the entire universe.

This understanding of divine transcendence has profound implications for theology and religious philosophy. It suggests that God is immanent, that is, present in all things, while at the same time being transcendent, existing beyond material reality. This duality is often described as the mystery of faith: God is close enough to be accessible to believers, but also distant enough to be beyond their complete comprehension.

Furthermore, divine transcendence has been a theological answer to the question of how God can be omnipresent. If God is beyond space and time, then His presence is not subject to the same limitations that affect human beings and the physical world. He is not contained in any specific place, but is present everywhere simultaneously, because of His transcendent nature.

For believers, an understanding of divine transcendence offers a sense of awe and wonder at God's greatness and majesty. It invites humility before the mystery of the divine and the search for a deeper connection with the Creator who is beyond all creation. By recognizing divine transcendence, believers are invited to expand their understanding of God and contemplate His eternal and limitless presence in the universe.

2. Divine Care and Providence

The notion of divine care and providence is intrinsically linked to God's omnipresence. When we say that God is omnipresent, we are also implying that He is actively involved in all areas of our lives. This implies that we are not alone in our journey in this world, but that there is a Supreme Being who cares for us and provides for our needs.

The idea of divine care is a source of comfort and hope for many believers, especially during times of difficulty and challenge. By recognizing that God is present everywhere, believers can trust that He is aware of their struggles and concerns, and that He is actively involved in their lives to offer guidance, protection and consolation.

Divine providence refers to the belief that God intervenes in the world to guide and sustain His creation according to His plan and purpose. This includes not only the provision of material needs such as food, shelter and security, but also the spiritual and emotional care of His creatures. Divine providence can manifest itself in various ways, from seemingly coincidental events to obvious miracles, all as part of God's greater plan for humanity.

The concept of divine care and providence is deeply rooted in many religious traditions. In Christianity, for example, Jesus exhorts His followers to trust in God's fatherly care, teaching them that He knows their needs and is ready to provide for them (Matthew 6:25-34). Similarly, in Islam, Muslims believe in the providence of Allah, who is described as the Sustainer and Provider of all things.

However, belief in God's care and providence does not imply that believers are exempt from suffering or difficulties. On the contrary, it is part of faith to recognize that God's plan may be incomprehensible at times, and that He may allow us to face challenges in order to strengthen and shape us. However, even in the darkest moments, believers can find comfort in the certainty that God is present and that His love and care are unwavering.

3. Ability to Hear and Respond to Prayers

The ability to hear and answer prayers is a fundamental part of the belief in God's omnipresence. When we affirm that God is present everywhere at the same time, we are implicitly recognizing His ability to hear the prayers of His followers, no matter where they are or in what circumstances they find themselves.

For many believers, the idea that God can hear and answer their prayers is a source of comfort and hope. It means that they are not alone in their struggles and challenges, but have a loving and caring God who is ready to hear their petitions and offer help when needed.

The ability to hear and answer prayers is also closely linked to the conception of God as a personal and relational being. He is not just an impersonal force in the universe, but a loving Father who cares deeply about His children. Just as an earthly father cares about his children's needs and responds to their pleas, God is ready to answer His children's prayers with love and compassion.

However, it is important to note that God's answer to prayer may not always be immediate or in the way we expect. God, in His infinite wisdom, knows what is best for us and may choose to answer our prayers in ways we don't fully understand. Sometimes He may say "yes", sometimes He may say "no" and on other occasions He may ask us to wait. However, even when we don't understand His answers, we can trust that He is acting for our greater good.

The ability to hear and answer prayers also highlights the importance of communication and relationship with God in the spiritual life. By praying regularly and seeking God's presence, believers can develop a deeper connection with Him and experience His presence in a more meaningful way in their lives.

Where does the Bible say that God is omnipresent?

The Bible does not contain a single passage that explicitly uses the term "omnipresent" to describe God. However, there are several passages that suggest His omnipresence through descriptions of His presence everywhere. Here are some of them:

Psalm 139:7-10 (NIV)

Psalm 139 is one of the most profound and poetic psalms in the Bible, where the psalmist expresses his deep understanding of God's omnipresence and omniscience. The passage in question, verses 7 to 10, offers a powerful reflection on the nature of God's presence.

The psalmist begins by rhetorically questioning where he could flee from God's presence, suggesting that there is no place where God's presence does not reach. He imagines extreme scenarios - ascending into heaven or descending into the grave - and yet concludes that God is there. This vivid image portrays God's omnipresence everywhere, no matter how high or low one goes.

The psalmist's poetic language highlights the depth and breadth of God's presence. When he speaks of "rising with the wings of dawn" or "dying at the edge of the sea", he is illustrating the idea that, even in extreme situations or in remote places, God's hand is always there to guide and sustain.

Jeremiah 23:23-24 (NIV)

The book of Jeremiah is one of the prophetic works of the Old Testament of the Bible, and Jeremiah is known for his messages of warning, exhortation and consolation to the people of Israel. In chapter 23, specifically in verses 23 and 24, we find a powerful statement about God's omnipresence:

"I am God near and not far, says the Lord. Can I hide somewhere where you can't see me? - says the Lord. Am I not the one who fills the heavens and the earth? - says the Lord." (Jeremiah 23:23-24, NIV)

These verses highlight God's transcendent and omnipresent nature, emphasizing that He is always present and attentive to everything that happens. The initial statement that He is "God near and not far away" suggests that God is not distant or inaccessible, but close and intimate with His people. This reflects the idea that God is not just a distant and impersonal Being, but a loving Father who cares deeply for His creatures.

Proverbs 15:3 (NIV)

The book of Proverbs is a collection of practical wisdom and moral advice, often attributed to the wise King Solomon. In chapter 15, verse 3, we find a simple but profound statement about God's omnipresence:

"The eyes of the Lord are everywhere, watching carefully the wicked and the good." (Proverbs 15:3, NIV)

This passage highlights God's omniscience and omnipresence. It describes God as a being who sees and knows all things, not only external actions, but also the thoughts and intentions of the human heart. His eyes are everywhere, not only watching the righteous, but also the wicked.

The idea that God is carefully watching the bad and the good serves as a reminder of divine justice. No one can escape God's scrutiny, and He will eventually reward the righteous and punish the wicked according to His moral laws.

This passage also emphasizes human responsibility before God. Knowing that He is always watching, believers are encouraged to live righteously and with integrity, seeking to please God in all areas of their lives.

Acts 17:27-28 (NIV)

Chapter 17 of the book of Acts recounts Paul's speech at the Areopagus in Athens, where he was dialoguing with the philosophers and intellectuals of the time. During this speech, Paul refers to the nature of God and the relationship between Him and humanity. In verses 27 and 28, we find a passage that highlights God's omnipresence and closeness:

"God did this so that men might seek him and perhaps, by groping, find him, even though he is not far from each one of us. For in him we live and move and exist, as some of your poets have said: 'We are also his offspring. (Acts 17:27-28, NIV)

This passage is part of Paul's speech, where he is arguing that God is not a distant or unknown being, but is intimately involved with His creation. Here are some key points about this passage:

• God is near: Paul emphasizes that God is not far from us, but is near, ready to be found by those who seek him. This highlights God's omnipresence and his closeness to humanity.
• In God we live, move and exist: This phrase further emphasizes the idea that our existence is rooted in God. He is the source of our life and movement, and our existence is maintained by His continuous providence.
• Search for connection with God: Paul suggests that God has made human beings search for Him, and even though we may feel lost or uncertain, He is there, ready to be found by those who sincerely seek Him.
• Quoting poets: Paul refers to Greek poets to illustrate his point, recognizing that there is a truth underlying human experience that points to the existence and closeness of God.

Divine omnipresence

God's omnipresence is one of the most fascinating and mysterious characteristics of religious theology. It speaks not only to God's greatness and majesty, but also to His closeness and intimacy with His creation. 

By recognizing and understanding the divine omnipresence, believers are invited to experience God's constant and comforting presence in their lives, regardless of the circumstances they face. May this understanding inspire a deeper faith and a closer connection with the Divine in all aspects of human existence.

See also: The Importance of Spirituality in the Digital Age: How Technology Affects Our Religious Practice

March 30th, 2024