What does the term "theodicy" refer to in religious studies?

The term "theodicy" specifically refers to the philosophical and theological attempts to explain the existence of evil in a world that is governed by a benevolent and omnipotent God. It addresses the critical question of how evil and suffering can exist if God is all-good, suggesting various arguments and perspectives that seek to reconcile the presence of evil with the belief in a just and loving deity.

In this context, theodicy is fundamentally concerned with justifying God’s goodness despite the reality of suffering and injustice in the world. This exploration often leads to various interpretations and frameworks within different religious traditions, aiming to understand how divine justice can coexist with human suffering.

The other options touch on important aspects of religious study, but they do not capture the specific essence of "theodicy." While the justification of God’s existence is related to apologetics (making a case for belief in God), it does not directly address the problem of evil. The study of religious texts is more aligned with scriptural analysis rather than the philosophical inquiries surrounding good and evil. Lastly, comparing different religions involves evaluating beliefs and practices across traditions, which is different from engaging with the specific issue of why evil exists if God is good. Thus, the correct answer accurately encapsulates the