theism

/'θi:izm/

Thân thiện

A person of theism finds comfort in daily prayer.

Definition

Noun: 1. The doctrine or belief in the existence of a God or gods: Theism is the philosophical and theological position that affirms the existence of at least one deity. It is the opposite of atheism, which denies the existence of deities, and is distinct from deism, which typically posits a non-intervening creator.

Usage

The term is used primarily in philosophical, theological, and comparative religious contexts to describe a foundational belief system. It is a categorical term, not typically used in everyday conversation.

Examples

• Noun:
  • Classical theism often describes God as omnipotent, omniscient, and omnibenevolent.
  • The debate between theism and atheism is a central topic in the philosophy of religion.
  • Her personal theism provided her with great comfort during difficult times.

Advanced Usage

• Monotheism: A form of theism that believes in the existence of a single God.
  • Christianity, Islam, and Judaism are major monotheistic religions.
• Polytheism: A form of theism that believes in the existence of multiple gods.
  • Ancient Greek and Roman religions are examples of polytheism.
• Pantheism: The belief that God is identical with the universe and everything in it.
  • Pantheism equates God with the totality of existence.
• Panentheism: The belief that God encompasses and interpenetrates the universe but also transcends it.
  • Some modern theologians advocate for a panentheistic view.

Variants and Related Words

• Theist (noun): A person who believes in theism.
  • He is a theist who believes in a personal God.
• Theistic (adjective): Relating to or characterized by theism.
  • Theistic arguments attempt to rationally justify belief in God.

Synonyms

• Belief in God(s): A more general phrase for the concept.
• Divine belief: A formal synonym emphasizing belief in the divine.

Antonyms

• Atheism: The disbelief or lack of belief in the existence of God or gods.
• Nontheism: An umbrella term for any position that is not theistic, including atheism and agnosticism.

Học thuật

Noun

1. the doctrine or belief in the existence of a God or gods