Theonym

Theonym is a proper name used to refer to a deity. In scholarly terms, it designates the specific name of a god or goddess within a religious system, as distinct from descriptive epithets or ritual titles.

Etymology and scope: theonym derives from the Greek theos, meaning "god," and onoma, meaning "name." Theonymy covers the many names by which a deity is invoked, worshiped, or identified in myths, prayers, inscriptions, and liturgical texts. Epithets and titles such as "Zeus the Liberator" or "Isis, Mistress of Magic" may accompany the theonym, but the core name itself is the theonym.

Cross-cultural usage: theonyms occur across world religious traditions. In ancient Greek and Roman contexts, theos names include Zeus, Hera, Athena, and their Latin equivalents Jupiter, Minerva, Apollo. In Egypt, the theonyms include Ra and Amun. Mesopotamian religion features theonyms such as Marduk and Enlil. In Hinduism, theonyms appear as names of deities like Krishna, Shiva, and Vishnu. The same deity often has multiple theonyms across languages and regions (for example, Zeus and Jupiter refer to the same god in Greek and Roman contexts).

Scholarly relevance: theonymology or theonym study helps track cult practices, ritual invocations, and the diffusion of religious ideas. Theonyms may also appear in toponyms, inscriptions, or literary works, revealing how communities identify and relate to their gods. Overall, theonym denotes the specific divine name within a religious framework, serving as a focal point for reverence and linguistic identity.