Monotheism

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˌmɑnoʊ̯ˈθiɪzm̩/

Definitions

  1. The belief in the existence and worship of a single supreme being or deity as the only object of religious devotion
  2. The doctrine asserting the existence of one supreme entity, rejecting the worship of multiple deities and emphasizing a singular divine focus
  3. A theological perspective centered on the belief in one all-powerful god, excluding the validity of other gods or divine figures

Etymology: The concept behind this word emerged prominently in religious and philosophical discussions as societies began to contrast belief systems centered on a single deity with those worshipping multiple gods. The term itself was coined in the early 17th century by scholars attempting to categorize and analyze different religious structures within comparative theology. It was formed by blending two Greek roots: "monos," meaning "single" or "alone," and "theos," meaning "god," combined with the suffix "-ism," which denotes a system, doctrine, or belief. This formation reflects a broader trend in the early modern period to create precise terms for complex ideas by reviving and adapting classical languages. The Greek components were chosen deliberately to evoke the intellectual heritage of ancient philosophy and theology, lending the word a scholarly tone appropriate for academic discourse. Over time, it came to be used not only in religious studies but also in philosophy, anthropology, and history to describe the belief in one supreme deity as opposed to polytheistic traditions. Before this specific term was coined, English speakers described the belief in one God using phrases rather than a single noun, such as "belief in one God" or "the doctrine of one God." The invention of a concise, Greek-derived term allowed for more straightforward discussion and comparison, which was especially important as scholars encountered a wider variety of religious beliefs through increased contact and exploration in the early modern era. The word's enduring use today owes much to its ability to encapsulate a fundamental distinction among world religions, aiding in the study of faith systems from Judaism, Christianity, and Islam to various philosophical interpretations. Its clear, etymological roots help maintain its precision and usefulness in both academic and popular contexts.

Synonyms: single deity belief, one god belief

Antonyms: polytheism, atheism