What does theism mean?
Theism is the broad term for belief in the existence of one or more deities or supreme powers. It can name either the underlying belief itself or the religious worldview and doctrine that develops from it. In philosophy and theology, theism is often discussed in relation to arguments for the existence of God, the nature of divine attributes, religious epistemology, and the relationship between faith and reason. The term is broader than monotheism, which denotes belief in one god, and polytheism, which denotes belief in several gods. Theism is also distinct from atheism, the rejection of belief in gods, and from nontheism, a position that does not affirm or deny divine existence. Although the word is often used in formal academic and religious contexts, it is recognized in ordinary English. In discussions of religious history and comparative religion, it provides a useful umbrella term for varied traditions that understand the world in relation to divine beings or powers.
nounTheism is the belief in the existence of one or more deities or supreme powers, and the general religious worldview or doctrine based on that belief. The term can refer to belief in a single god, several gods, or other supernatural beings regarded as divine.
- Belief in one or more deities or supreme powers, together with the worldview or doctrine based on that belief.
"The philosopher explored the relationship between reason, morality, and theism."
"Her lecture examined the role of moral argument in classical theism."
"The discussion distinguished monotheism and polytheism as two different forms of theism."
The plural is uncommon, but it can distinguish different forms or versions of theistic belief.
"The study compares several theisms found across different religious traditions."
The word that names a belief in the divine also has a quiet built-in opposite: change its opening sound and it becomes a denial of the gods.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does theism come from?
Theism comes from the Greek theos, meaning “god,” combined with the suffix -ism, which forms a noun naming a belief, doctrine, or characteristic practice. It entered English in the early 17th century in theological and philosophical writing. Related English words such as theist, theology, theocracy, and theosophy draw on the same Greek root, though they developed different meanings and uses.
Related word forms
How theism is actually used
Theism is primarily a formal philosophical and religious term, especially common in discussions of philosophy of religion, theology, and comparative religion. It should not be confused with monotheism, which is specifically belief in one god, or polytheism, which is belief in multiple gods.
Easily confused with theism
Theism is belief in the existence of a deity or deities, whereas atheism is the rejection of such belief or the nonexistence of gods.