The word "atheistical" is spelled with six syllables, with the primary stress on the third syllable: "a-the-IS-ti-cal." The word derives from "atheist," meaning a person who does not believe in a god or gods, and "-ical," a suffix used to form adjectives. While "atheistical" is still in use, it is more common to see "atheistic" spelled without the additional "al." Regardless of the spelling, the meaning remains the same – someone who does not believe in a higher power.
Atheistical is an adjective that describes the lack of belief in the existence of a supreme being or deities. Derived from the noun "atheist," an atheistical individual rejects the notion of any divine power or supernatural entities. This term is often used to characterize individuals or ideologies that express an absence of faith in religious doctrines or gods.
Atheistical beliefs are rooted in rationality and skepticism, as they question the existence of supernatural powers without sufficient scientific evidence. Consequently, atheists often view religious claims as unverifiable or unsupported by empirical data. While atheistic viewpoints reject the idea of a higher power, it does not necessarily imply adherence to specific alternate spiritual or philosophical beliefs.
The term can also extend beyond personal belief, referring to systems or societies that lack a prevalent religious influence. Atheistical societies may be characterized by secularism, where religious influence is minimized or absent from public life, governance, and legal systems. Such societies prioritize rationality, evidence-based practices, and the separation between religion and state.
It is important to note that the term "atheistical" is subjective and can carry varying connotations depending on cultural, historical, and religious contexts. Individuals who identify as atheistical may hold a range of other beliefs, ideologies, and values, making atheism a diverse and multifaceted worldview.
The word "atheistical" is derived from the word "atheist", which in turn comes from the Greek term "atheos". "Atheos" is a combination of "a-" (meaning "without" or "not") and "theos" (meaning "god"). Thus, "atheistical" refers to something or someone characterized by atheism or lack of belief in a god or gods.