What does theistically mean?
Theistically is a formal English adverb meaning in the manner of a theist or in accordance with theistic belief. It is most often used in philosophical, theological, and religious discussions when a writer wants to describe an argument, interpretation, or approach that takes the existence of a deity or deities seriously and treats belief in deity as its governing premise. The word is more specific than “religiously” and slightly different from “theologically”: theistically can imply not merely analysis of theology but reasoning that proceeds from the perspective of theism. Because of this committed perspective, the term may be used in comparative philosophy and theology, sometimes to contrast a theistic explanation with a naturalistic or scientific one. The adverb is relatively uncommon in everyday speech, but it is useful when precision about the standpoint of an argument matters.
adverbIn the manner of a theist or according to theistic belief; from the standpoint that a deity or deities exist.
- In accordance with theistic belief or from the perspective of a theist.
"The passage treats the origin of moral authority theistically, grounding it in divine command."
"Critics of the design argument often discuss the universe theistically rather than naturalistically."
"Her theistically informed response challenged the assumption that religious explanations were necessarily less rigorous."
Theistically puts the theist's commitment inside the adverb: not merely discussing God, but reasoning as a theist would.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does theistically come from?
English theistically was formed from theistic with the adverbial suffix -ally. Theistic belongs to the family of theism and theist, words ultimately derived from Greek theos, meaning “god.” Related English formations include theology, from Greek theos and logos, and theocracy, in which rule or authority is understood as derived from a deity.
Related word forms
How theistically is actually used
This is a relatively uncommon, formal word characteristic of philosophical, theological, and religious discourse. It can suggest that an argument proceeds on theistic premises rather than merely examining religious or theological questions.
Easily confused with theistically
Theistically suggests reasoning from a commitment to belief in a deity, whereas theologically more broadly concerns theology as a field of study or method.