Theophilanthropy

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /θiːə(ʊ)fɪˈlanθɹəpi/

Definitions

1. A philosophy that fuses veneration for a supreme being with a strong dedication to charitable giving and kindness towards others
2. An ethical framework that merges the worship of a higher power with profound support for humanitarian efforts and generous actions
3. A belief system that unites recognition of a divine entity with active commitment to helping others through goodwill and support

Etymology: The word joins three Greek elements: "theos" (god), "philos" (loving) and "anthropos" (human), so its parts together mean love of God and of humankind. French speakers formed it into "théophilanthropie" to name a religious movement that made this double love the core of worship, favouring moral charity over traditional doctrine. English borrowed the term from French, keeping its sense of a religion built on charitable conduct rather than on revealed creeds. Its Greek parts remain easy to see, so readers can work out its meaning even without knowing the movement behind it.

Synonyms: philanthropy, benevolence, charity, humanitarianism, altruism