Monotheism
/ˌmɒn.əˈθiː.ɪ.zəm/noun
The belief in a single all-powerful deity.
Did you know?Ancient cultures feared that acknowledging a single deity could provoke the wrath of the many gods they worshipped, leading to spiritual conflict and societal upheaval.
Etymological Timeline
Ancient Greek
Greek
μονοθεϊσμός
“The belief in one god, derived from 'monos' (single) and 'theos' (god).”
Late Antiquity
Latin
monotheismus
“Adoption of the Greek term into Latin, signifying a theological stance against polytheism.”
14th Century
Middle English
monotheisme
“Emergence of the term in English texts, often in religious contexts.”
Modern English
English
monotheism
“Established usage in philosophical and theological discussions around the nature of divinity.”