What does godship mean?
Godship refers to the state or quality of being a god, encompassing the characteristics, powers, and attributes associated with divinity. This concept is central to many religious and mythological traditions, where gods are often depicted as having supernatural powers and domains. The term godship can also refer to a divine or supernatural quality, such as wisdom, justice, or mercy. Understanding godship is essential for grasping the nature of deity and the role of gods in various cultures and belief systems. The concept has been explored in philosophy, theology, and literature, and continues to be a topic of interest and debate.
nounThe state or quality of being a god; divinity.
- The state of being a god
- A divine or supernatural quality
"The ancient Greeks believed that Zeus's godship gave him control over the weather."
"The Egyptians worshipped many gods, each with their own godship."
"The concept of godship is central to many religious traditions."
countable, often used in formal or literary contexts
"The mythologies of ancient cultures describe various godships and their domains."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of godship
The word godship originated from the Old English words 'god' and 'scip', which meant 'state or condition'. The term has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the state or quality of being a god. It is related to other words such as 'godly', 'godlike', and 'godhood', which all convey a sense of divinity or supernatural power.
Usage notes
Formal or literary usage; often used in philosophical or theological discussions.