jumalikkuse

Jumalikkus is a term in Estonian that denotes divinity or godliness—the quality or state of being divine or belonging to a deity. The word stems from jumal, meaning “god,” with the abstract noun suffix -ikkus, which yields concepts such as divinity, sacredness, or godlike nature. In everyday language, jumalikkus can describe the perceived holiness or majestic quality of a divine being, a sacred place, or religious imagery.

In theological and philosophical discussions, jumalikkus distinguishes between the divine nature of deities and qualities attributed to humans. As an ontological concept, it refers to the essence or attributes of a god or gods. In ethical or spiritual contexts, the term is used to speak of godliness or resemblance to the divine in human life—traits like holiness, virtue, and moral integrity. Some traditions differentiate between the absolute jumalikkus of the divine and the imperfect, partial participation in that divine life available to humans.

Within Estonian religious literature, jumalikkus appears in translations of theological terms such as divinity, the godhead, or divine essence. It is also linked to ideas of theosis or deification in some Christian and Orthodox traditions, where believers strive to partake in the divine life while maintaining distinction from the divine nature itself. Beyond formal theology, jumalikkus can function as a cultural concept describing awe, reverence, or the perception of the sacred in art, nature, and ritual.

See also: Jumal (God), theosis, divinity, godliness.