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In Trinitarianism, God is said to be three persons in one essence, nature, or being. These last three terms are often seen as synonymous, but it can be helpful to understand what each means independently. Theological explanations of the Trinity, especially as developed in the early church, included the use of certain Greek terms which are included below for reference.

Essence

The word “essence” may be defined as the intrinsic or indispensable properties that serve to characterize or identify something. Essence describes what it is to be God. The three persons of the Godhead share the same essence, and God’s essence is immaterial. With this understanding, the doctrine of the Trinity continues to assert monotheism, an essential and easily found belief within Scripture.

Nature

The word “nature” may be defined as the essential characteristics and qualities of a person or thing. Sometimes “nature” is synonymous with “essence.” Ontologically, each of the three members of the Trinity possess the same essential nature.

Being

The word “being” may be defined as the state or quality of having existence. The triune God of Scripture eternally exists and has eternal being. Again, along with a monotheistic understanding, there is one and only one being, that is, God.

Person

The word “person” may be defined as the composite of characteristics that make up an individual personality. Scripture presents separate individualities of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, as distinguished from the “essence” of the Godhead that unites them.