Spinoza and Theology

Spinoza and Theology is a comprehensive examination of Spinoza's legacy in theology. It assesses his dual representation as a heretic against whom theology must defend itself, and as a proponent of ethical thinking. The volume investigates Spinoza's argument for the existence of God and how this conception differs from other philosophical and religious variants. Further emphasis is placed on the radical Enlightenment context of Spinoza's rejection of key elements of the theological tradition. A central tenet of this study is the focus on Spinoza's 'radical mutation': he mutates established concepts rather than inventing new ones. In so doing, the study discusses Spinoza's relation to religious traditions, his rationalism, philosophical style, and his treatment of biblical texts. His legacy is further explored in the nature and form of post-Spinozist theology. As an academic resource, this book offers readers the opportunity to engage with the work of Spinoza from constructive, critical, and historical viewpoints.