politeism

Politeism, often called polytheism, is the belief in and worship of multiple deities. In polytheistic systems, gods are typically seen as distinct beings with particular powers, personalities, and spheres of influence, who may interact with one another and with humans within a shared mythic framework. The term contrasts with monotheism, which centers on a single deity, and with henotheism, which acknowledges multiple gods but prioritizes worship of one deity above the others.

Historically, many civilizations practiced polytheism. Ancient Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome each maintained a pantheon of gods linked to natural phenomena, social roles, and national myths. In South Asia and Southeast Asia, traditional Hindu, Buddhist, and indigenous traditions feature multiple gods and goddesses, though some traditions include monotheistic or monistic strands. Polytheistic belief also persisted among Norse, Celtic, and Slavic peoples, among others, and persisted in some Asian traditions into the modern era.

Ritual life in polytheistic systems often centers on temples, festivals, priesthoods, and rites of sacrifice or offering. Myths explain the gods’ origins and activities and how humans should relate to the divine; festivals mark agricultural cycles, seasonal changes, and heroic narratives. Cultural exchange and conquest commonly produced syncretism, merging gods and cults from different regions.

Today, the term polytheism remains common in academic discussions of ancient religions and of contemporary neopagan movements, which revive or reconstruct polytheist practices. The concept highlights the diversity of divine beings and religious experiences across cultures, contrasting with faiths that worship a single deity or that center on non-theistic beliefs.