What does henotheistic mean?
Henotheistic is an adjective describing a form of religious belief that centers on one deity without necessarily rejecting the existence of other gods. In inclusive henotheistic traditions, a chosen deity may be understood as supreme among a wider divine pantheon; in exclusive forms, one god is affirmed as the only true god even though other supernatural beings are recognized. The term is therefore distinct from both monotheism and polytheism, although it can overlap with either in practice. It is especially useful when discussing ancient religions, in which deities might be ranked according to local worship, political authority, or particular social circumstances. The word belongs primarily to the specialized vocabulary of religious studies and theology. Outside those fields, it may be unfamiliar, but it provides a precise way to describe belief systems that privilege one deity rather than simply affirming one god or a many-valued pantheon.
adjectiveOf or relating to henotheism: the belief in or worship of one god without necessarily denying the existence of other deities.
- Relating to henotheism, especially to the belief in or worship of one god while allowing for the existence of other deities.
"The temple's iconography suggests a henotheistic tradition in which the moon god was venerated above other deities."
"Archaeologists debated whether the inscriptions reflected a henotheistic cult or a broader local pantheon."
"The scholar used "henotheistic" to describe the community's preference for a single divine patron without ruling out other deities."
Henotheistic belief can elevate one deity above the others without declaring every other god unreal.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does henotheistic come from?
The adjective was formed in English from henotheism, a term developed in the 19th century by combining Greek elements meaning "one" and "god" and adding the suffix -ism. Its formation reflects the need to distinguish a position between monotheism and polytheism. The related noun henotheist denotes an adherent of this belief.
Related word forms
How henotheistic is actually used
A formal and specialized term used chiefly in religious studies, theology, and historical writing. It may refer either to exclusive henotheism, in which one god is regarded as the only true god, or to inclusive forms that acknowledge other deities while treating one as supreme or especially worthy of worship.
Easily confused with henotheistic
Monotheistic belief affirms the existence of only one god, whereas henotheistic belief may acknowledge other deities while privileging or worshipping one.
Polytheistic belief recognizes a multiplicity of gods without making one deity uniquely supreme, while henotheistic belief places particular emphasis on one god.