MONOLATRISM Meaning and
Definition
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Monolatrism is a religious or theological belief system characterized by the worship or reverence of one deity while acknowledging the existence of other deities. This concept is often found in polytheistic religions, where multiple gods or goddesses are recognized. However, in monolatrism, adherents actively choose to focus their devotion primarily on a single deity, while acknowledging the existence and power of other gods.
Monolatrism can also be understood as a form of henotheism, a belief in the existence of many gods but the worship of only one. Unlike monotheism, which asserts the belief in one omnipotent, all-encompassing deity, monolatrism recognizes the potential divinity of other gods but chooses to give exclusive devotion and acknowledgment to a specific deity.
This concept has been observed in various cultural and religious contexts throughout history, including ancient Mesopotamian religions, certain forms of Hinduism, and even in some traditional African and Native American belief systems. In these contexts, monolatrism serves as a way to establish a particular god or goddess as the central focus of worship, while still acknowledging the existence and potential influence of others.
Overall, monolatrism represents a unique theological perspective in which one deity is regarded as supreme, even though the existence of other gods is acknowledged. It offers a way for individuals or communities to express their religious devotion while recognizing the diversity of divine entities.
Etymology of MONOLATRISM
The word "monolatrism" is derived from the combination of two Greek roots: "mono", meaning "single" or "one", and "latreia", meaning "worship" or "service". The term was coined in the early 19th century by biblical scholars to describe a religious system or belief in which a person or a group worship or acknowledge the existence of a single deity while not denying the existence of other deities. It is often used as a subset or intermediary concept between henotheism (the worship of a single deity without denying the existence of others) and monotheism (the belief in the existence of only one true deity).
