monotheisms

Monotheism is the belief in a single, all-powerful, transcendent deity who is the sole object of worship and the ultimate source of moral authority. In scholarly use, the term also encompasses the idea of divine unity, sometimes expressed as a rejection of the existence of other gods. Monotheism is often discussed in contrast with polytheism (belief in many gods), henotheism or monolatry (worship of one god while acknowledging others’ existence), and atheism (disbelief in gods).

Three religions traditionally identified as major monotheistic traditions are Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Judaism presents a strict affirmation of one God and emphasizes a covenantal relationship with God. Christianity maintains belief in one God but defines him as the Trinity in most mainstream interpretations, a doctrinal nuance that has different implications for monotheism across denominations. Islam emphasizes tawhid, the absolute oneness of God, and regards him as indivisible and unique.

Other traditions are also described as monotheistic or predominantly monotheistic in practice. Sikhism teaches belief in one formless God and emphasizes devotion to that single divine reality. The Bahá’í Faith teaches the oneness of God and the unity of all religions. Zoroastrianism is sometimes described as monotheistic or dualistic, with Ahura Mazda as the supreme deity, though later developments introduced a more complex cosmology involving opposing forces.

Historically, monotheistic ideas have emerged in the ancient Near East and Mediterranean worlds and evolved through late antiquity into the medieval and modern periods, influencing religious, ethical, and philosophical discourse across cultures.