teismi

Teismi is a philosophical and theological term referring to the belief in the existence of at least one deity or divine being. The concept is central to many religious traditions, including monotheistic faiths such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, which posit the existence of a single, all-powerful God. In contrast, polytheistic religions like Hinduism and ancient Greco-Roman beliefs acknowledge multiple gods and divine entities.

The etymology of "teismi" originates from the Greek word "theos," meaning "god." It generally encompasses a wide range of beliefs about the nature, existence, and attributes of divine beings. Teismi can be contrasted with atheism, which rejects the belief in deities, and agnosticism, which posits that the existence or non-existence of deities is unknown or unknowable.

Philosophically, teismi often involves arguments for the existence of God, such as the cosmological, teleological, and ontological arguments. The concept also explores questions regarding the relationship between the divine and the universe, the nature of divine attributes such as omnipotence, omniscience, and benevolence, and the implications of divine existence on morality and human life.

Throughout history, teismi has significantly influenced religious practices, ethical frameworks, and cultural developments. It continues to be a foundational element in theological discourse, shaping debates around faith, reason, and the nature of reality.