Theistic existentialism is a philosophical perspective that combines existentialist themes of individual freedom, choice, and responsibility with a belief in the existence of a personal deity or divine being. Unlike atheistic existentialism, which rejects the existence of God, theistic existentialism affirms a transcendent source of meaning, purpose, and moral values in the universe.

Key characteristics of theistic existentialism include:

1. Belief in God: Theistic existentialism asserts the existence of God or a divine being who serves as the ultimate foundation for existence and the source of transcendent meaning. This belief shapes how individuals understand their place in the world and their relationship to the divine.
2. Human Freedom and Responsibility: Theistic existentialism emphasizes human freedom and responsibility to make authentic choices and live in accordance with moral principles derived from religious teachings or divine commandments.
3. Existential Anxiety and Faith: Theistic existentialism acknowledges the existential anxiety and uncertainty inherent in human existence but believes that faith in God provides a framework for confronting life’s challenges with hope and purpose.
4. Integration of Faith and Reason: Theistic existentialists often seek to reconcile faith with reason, exploring how religious beliefs can coexist with philosophical inquiry and personal experiences of doubt or ambiguity.
5. Ethical and Moral Framework: Theistic existentialism often derives ethical principles and moral values from religious teachings or theological doctrines, viewing them as guides for ethical behavior and decision-making.
6. Prominent Thinkers: Prominent figures associated with theistic existentialism include Søren Kierkegaard, Gabriel Marcel, Karl Jaspers, and to some extent, Martin Buber. These thinkers explored the interplay between faith, human existence, and the search for meaning within a religious context.

Theistic existentialism provides a framework for individuals to explore questions of existence, meaning, and ethics while integrating religious faith and existential insights into their understanding of life’s purpose and significance. It offers a perspective that seeks to bridge the existential challenges of human existence with the belief in a transcendent and personal deity.