theism

Theism is the belief in the existence of at least one god or multiple gods who are typically involved in the world and human affairs. The term derives from the Greek theos, meaning "god," with the suffix -ism. Theism is often contrasted with atheism, which rejects belief in gods, and with agnosticism, which holds that the existence of gods is unknown or unknowable.

Within theism, monotheism asserts a single, personal God who is usually viewed as creator, sustainer, and regulator of the universe. Polytheism holds that many gods exist, sometimes with distinct domains or powers. Some belief systems blur these lines or categorize other approaches—such as deism, which posits a creator who does not intervene in the world, as distinct from traditional theism, and certain theistic philosophies that incorporate non-human or impersonal conceptions of ultimate reality.

Philosophical theism analyzes the nature and existence of God, addressing attributes often ascribed to God, such as omnipotence, omniscience, and benevolence, and how these attributes relate to the problem of evil. Theism has played a central role in many of the world’s religions. In Judaism, Christianity, and Islam, theistic frameworks commonly present a personal God or gods and often include sacred revelations and religious practices. Hinduism embodies a spectrum from devotional (theistic) theisms focused on particular deities to non-theistic or philosophical strands that emphasize a non-personal ultimate reality.

Historically, theism has influenced ethics, law, art, and science, and it continues to be a focal point in contemporary debates about religion, spirituality, and the nature of existence.