Monism — What is it?

TL;DR:

Monism is the idea that all reality can be explained by one substance or single reality. It contrasts with the Bible’s teaching, which distinguishes God from His creation.

Monism suggests that everything in the universe is part of a single substance or reality, often used to argue for pantheism, the belief that God and the universe are one. However, the Bible presents a very different view. From the very first verse, Scripture reveals that God is distinct from His creation: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth" (Genesis 1:1). The Bible teaches monotheism, the belief in one God who created and sustains all things and is separate from them.

Moreover, the Bible presents God as Triune—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19). Each Person of the Trinity is fully God, yet distinct in their roles, revealing that God is a relational being who created humanity in His image (Genesis 1:27). This biblical understanding is far from monism’s perspective, where no distinction exists between the Creator and creation.

from the old testament

Genesis 1:1: "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth." This foundational verse affirms the distinction between God and His creation, rejecting the idea of a single substance or reality underlying all things.
Genesis 1:27: "So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them." Humanity is made in God’s image, showing that while humans are distinct from God, they have a unique relationship with their Creator.

from the new testament

John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life." This verse reveals God’s love for His creation, showing that humanity has value and purpose beyond being part of a single substance.
Matthew 28:19: "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." This verse reflects the doctrine of the Trinity, revealing the distinct Persons of the one true God.

implications for today

Monism, whether in its pantheistic or atheistic forms, fails to capture the biblical truth about God’s relationship with creation. While monism tries to explain the universe through a single, unified reality, the Bible teaches that God is distinct from what He created, yet He is deeply involved in it. The Christian understanding of God as a relational, Triune Creator gives meaning and purpose to life. It affirms that humanity is made in God’s image, and each person is deeply valued by the Creator. Monism, in contrast, lacks the depth to explain the purpose of creation, the uniqueness of humanity, or the plan of salvation offered through Jesus Christ (John 3:16).

understand

Monism posits that all reality arises from a single substance, often implying that God and the universe are identical.
Monism is often associated with pantheism.
The Bible asserts a clear distinction between God and His creation.

reflect

How does understanding that monism is false influence your perspective on the relationship between God and creation?
In what ways do you see the concept of being made in God's image affecting your self-worth and purpose?
How can recognizing the distinction between God and His creation shape our interactions with God and the world around us?

engage

Modern beliefs that hold to monism often manifest in philosophies, such as New Age spirituality and certain interpretations of Eastern religions, particularly Hinduism and Buddhism. These belief systems emphasize the interconnectedness of all existence, suggesting that individual entities are ultimately manifestations of a singular reality or consciousness. Additionally, some contemporary philosophical movements, like idealism and certain strands of scientific materialism, also align with monistic ideas, arguing that everything can be reduced to a single substance or essence.
What implications does the doctrine of the Trinity have on our understanding of God's nature compared to monistic beliefs?
In light of Genesis 1:1, how might we approach discussions about the origins of the universe with those who hold monistic views?