Frequently Asked Questions About BioPanentheism
By Allan W. Janssen
BioPanentheism is a bold and evolving theological hypothesis that combines scientific insight with spiritual intuition. As interest in this concept grows, so do the questions. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions from curious readers and seekers alike.
What is BioPanentheism?
BioPanentheism is a philosophical and theological framework that proposes the Divine is not only present in all things (as in panentheism), but becomes truly manifest through conscious biological life. In simple terms: without life, there is no divine spark. God doesn't just create life—God experiences reality through it.
Who originated the idea of BioPanentheism?
BioPanentheism was originated by Canadian author and writer Allan W. Janssen. It is his unique contribution to the evolving dialogue between science, consciousness, and theology. While related to process theology and panentheism, BioPanentheism introduces new ideas such as divine evolution, sacred biology, and the “Boredom Hypothesis.”
How does BioPanentheism differ from traditional panentheism?
Traditional panentheism teaches that the universe is within God, and God transcends the universe. BioPanentheism goes further: it asserts that God becomes conscious and self-aware only through biological life. In other words, biology isn’t just part of creation—it’s the vessel through which God wakes up.
What is the “Boredom Hypothesis”?
This is a playful but profound idea in BioPanentheism: what if the Divine created life out of boredom? Not necessity, not omnipotent design, but pure curiosity. In this view, the universe is a kind of divine experiment—an unfolding drama through which the Divine surprises and entertains itself.
Is BioPanentheism religious or scientific?
Both—and neither. BioPanentheism encourages a partnership between science and spirituality. It draws on evolutionary biology, complexity theory, and consciousness studies, while proposing a metaphysical framework in which life has intrinsic sacred value. It's a bridge between empirical knowledge and spiritual meaning.
Does BioPanentheism believe in a personal God?
Not in the classical sense. The God of BioPanentheism is not a static, all-knowing ruler but a growing, learning presence that evolves through the experience of life. You might think of God as the sum of all conscious experiences—living vicariously through us.
What are the ethical implications?
If your actions contribute to the Divine’s evolution, then ethics becomes sacred. Love, justice, and creativity are not just moral choices—they’re acts of metaphysical co-creation. Cruelty and ignorance, on the other hand, diminish the divine field of experience.
What happens when we die?
BioPanentheism suggests that consciousness continues in some form, re-integrating into the larger divine field. Death is not an end, but a transformation—where the divine spark you carried becomes part of a greater, ongoing story.
Why does this matter today?
In an age of ecological crisis, spiritual confusion, and scientific wonder, BioPanentheism offers a vision of purpose, unity, and sacred responsibility. It says: life matters—not just because it’s alive, but because it’s divine.
Where can I learn more?
You can explore more on the blog Children of the Divine or check out Allan W. Janssen’s book “Being Human” on Amazon.
Want to talk more? Leave a comment or email with your questions. This is an ongoing conversation—and you’re part of it.
No comments:
Post a Comment