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henotheism

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /ˈhɛnəˌθiːɪzəm/

KK: /hɛnəˈθizəm/

noun
Definition

The belief in one god while accepting that other gods may exist.


Example

In some cultures, henotheism allows followers to worship a single deity while acknowledging the presence of others.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard about henotheism?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's the idea of worshiping one god while acknowledging others, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I find it interesting how different cultures approach spirituality.
Sloth B
Me too! It shows how diverse beliefs can be.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
monolatry
monotheism
polytheism
Antonyms
atheism
polytheism
agnosticism
Root Explanation

Henotheism is formed from "heno-" (from Greek "henos", meaning one) and "theos" (meaning god). The term refers to the belief in one primary god while acknowledging the existence of other gods.

Memory Tip

Think of 'one' ('heno-') god ('theos') being worshipped, which helps you remember that henotheism is the belief in one main god among many.

Visually Confused Words
herotheism
kathenotheism
egotheism
theriotheism
nomotheism
monotheism
hylotheism
hulotheism
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