theïst

Theïst, or theist, is a person who believes in the existence of a god or deities. The term is formed from the Greek theos, meaning “god,” with the suffix -ist, indicating a person associated with a belief or practice. The diaeresis in the spelling theïst is not standard in most languages; when used, it typically serves a linguistic or typographic purpose to indicate two syllables rather than a different meaning.

Beliefs associated with theism vary. Many theists are monotheists, believing in a single, personal deity who often intervenes in the world and is the object of worship. Others are polytheists, who accept multiple deities with distinct functions. Theists may hold that deities are knowledgeable, purposeful, and capable of revelation, prayer, and moral guidance. Some theists emphasize personal relationship with the divine, while others conceive of God or gods as abstract principles or forces.

Theism is contrasted with atheism (disbelief in God or gods) and agnosticism (uncertainty about divinity). It also intersects with related positions such as deism (belief in a creator who does not intervene in the universe) and pantheism (identification of God with the universe). Throughout history, theism has been a central element of many religious traditions, including the Abrahamic faiths, Hinduism, Sikhism, and various polytheistic systems, shaping doctrine, ritual practice, ethics, and culture.

In contemporary discourse, the term “theist” is used in philosophy of religion and theology to categorize belief about the existence and nature of deity, and discussions often explore arguments for and against the existence of a god or gods as well as the problem of evil and divine action.