The doctrine of the Trinity teaches that God exists as three persons but is one essence. This concept is fundamental to understanding mainstream Christian theology.

Imago Dei, meaning 'the image of God', asserts that every human is created with an innate dignity reflective of God's image. This concept underscores the intrinsic value of all individuals.

Genesis is the opening book of the Bible and lays the groundwork for many theological concepts by detailing the creation and early history of the world. It is foundational to Judeo-Christian narratives.

Theological study in a seminary primarily involves interpreting sacred texts and exploring doctrinal beliefs. This critical analysis aids students in deepening their understanding of faith and religious practice.

The term 'Messiah', meaning 'anointed one', is used in Christian theology to refer to Jesus as the savior. It is a central concept that highlights the redemptive mission of Christ.

The First Council of Nicaea, held in 325 AD, was pivotal in defining the relationship among the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Its creedal formulations laid the groundwork for orthodox Trinitarian doctrine.

Exegesis is the process of critically interpreting a text by analyzing its historical and cultural context. This method ensures a more accurate understanding of the intended meaning of the scriptures.

A covenant is a solemn agreement or promise between God and His people, as seen throughout biblical narratives. It is central to understanding the relational dynamics between the divine and humanity.

Calvinism is well-known for its doctrine of predestination, asserting that God has predetermined the salvation or damnation of individuals. This view has significantly influenced Protestant thought since the Reformation.

The Council of Trent was convened as a response to the challenges of the Protestant Reformation. Its decrees clarified Catholic doctrine and reformed practices, marking a defining moment in the Counter-Reformation.

Dogmatics is the branch of theology that systematically organizes and articulates doctrinal beliefs. It provides a structured framework for understanding and teaching religious doctrine.

Natural theology examines the existence and attributes of God using reason and observation of the natural world. It operates independently of divinely revealed scripture, highlighting the harmony between faith and rational inquiry.

Theodicy is the field of study that attempts to reconcile the existence of evil with an all-powerful and benevolent God. It is a critical area of philosophical and theological inquiry that addresses one of the most challenging questions of faith.

Personal theology refers to the process by which individuals reflect upon and interpret their own experiences of faith. This subjective approach often informs how they understand and live out their beliefs.

Christology delves into the person, nature, and significance of Jesus Christ, emphasizing both his divine and human aspects. It is integral to understanding the core message of Christianity and its doctrinal formulations.

Kenosis, as reflected in Philippians 2:7, refers to Christ's self-emptying of certain divine privileges to fully embrace human nature. This concept challenges classical ideas of divine immutability by highlighting a voluntary limitation for the sake of redemption.

The Enlightenment ushered in an era of rationalism and empirical inquiry, encouraging theologians to approach scripture with critical and analytical methods. This shift significantly impacted how modern seminary studies integrate reason with faith.

Rational theology holds that human reason and divine revelation are complementary in the quest to understand God. This approach asserts that faith is enriched, rather than opposed, by thoughtful philosophical exploration.

The hermeneutical circle is a methodological concept in biblical interpretation where understanding the parts of the text informs the understanding of the whole, and vice versa. This iterative process emphasizes the importance of context and preconceptions in attaining accurate interpretations.

Liberation theology reexamines traditional doctrines with an emphasis on addressing systemic injustice and inequality. It links the teachings of the Bible with efforts toward economic, social, and political transformation for the marginalized.