THEODICY

theodicy

(noun) the branch of theology that defends God’s goodness and justice in the face of the existence of evil

Source: WordNet® 3.1

Etymology

Noun

theodicy (plural theodicies)

(theology, philosophy) A justification of a deity or of particular attributes of a deity; specifically, a justification of the existence of evil and suffering in the world; a work or discourse justifying the ways of God.

Source: Wiktionary

The*od"i*cy, n. Etym: [NL. theodicæa, fr. Gr. théodicée.]

1. A vindication of the justice of God in ordaining or permitting natural and moral evil.

2. That department of philosophy which treats of the being, perfections, and government of God, and the immortality of the soul. Krauth-Fleming.

Source: Webster’s Unabridged Dictionary 1913 Edition