What does monotheistic mean?
Monotheistic is an adjective describing a belief system, religion, or text that recognizes one god above all. The word is especially associated with Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, although it can describe other traditions that affirm the worship of a single deity. In historical and comparative writing, “monotheistic belief” contrasts with “polytheistic belief,” which recognizes multiple gods, and with forms of monolatry that permit worship of other divine beings alongside a chief god. The adjective is useful when discussing the structure of religious ideas, the development of ancient traditions, or the way shared sacred history influences different communities. It can also describe nonreligious ideas that present a single ultimate source, principle, or authority. In ordinary conversation, the more familiar term is often “monotheism,” while “monotheistic” is especially likely to appear in academic, historical, literary, or religious-studies contexts.
adjectiveRelating to or characteristic of monotheism, the belief that there is only one god. A monotheistic religion or system of belief affirms the existence of a single deity.
- Relating to monotheism or to a belief in one god.
"The scholar examined the monotheistic traditions of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam."
"The museum's display explores how monotheistic beliefs spread across the ancient Mediterranean."
"Her interpretation of the text emphasized its monotheistic message."
One god, one adjective: monotheistic is the term for a worldview built around a single divine power.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Words that share this root
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How monotheistic is actually used
The term is usually formal and descriptive rather than devotional. It may be used neutrally when comparing religious traditions, but historical discussions can carry contextual implications depending on the traditions being compared.
Easily confused with monotheistic
Monotheistic describes belief in one god, whereas polytheistic describes belief in multiple gods.
Monotheistic belief affirms that one deity is the sole god, while monolatristic belief allows other deities or divine beings to be worshipped alongside the chief one.