Pronunciation: [θiːəɡˈɒni] (IPA) 
Theogony (/θiˈɒɡəni/) is a word of Ancient Greek origin, representing the birth of the gods. The letters "th" in English spelling is a digraph, which represents the voiceless dental fricative sound /θ/. The "eo" in Theogony represents the diphthong sound /iː/ and /oʊ/. Lastly, the "g" in the word is pronounced like a hard "g" sound /ɡ/. Therefore, Theogony is spelled as T-h-e-o-g-o-n-y with a stress on the second syllable.
Theogony is a noun that derives from the Greek words "theos" meaning "god" and "gonia" meaning "birth" or "origin". It refers to a poem or a work of literature that elaborates on the genealogy, birth, and relationships between gods and goddesses, particularly those in ancient Greek mythology. The concept of theogony is grounded in the belief that deities have a structured and organized existence, with their origins and familial ties being of paramount importance.
In a theogony, each deity's parentage, hierarchy, and emergence into power are explained, providing a comprehensive account of their lineage and mythology. Theogonies also often outline the creation of the universe, describing how gods and goddesses came into being and how they relate to the forces and elements of nature.
The most prominent theogony in Greek mythology is Hesiod's "Theogony," written in the 8th century BCE. Besides constructing genealogies, Hesiod's work delves into the creation of the world and the birth of gods like Zeus, Hera, and Poseidon. His theogony serves as a foundation for understanding the Olympic pantheon and their dynamics.
However, theogonies are not confined to ancient Greek mythology. They may also exist in other mythological traditions worldwide, shedding light on divine origins, family ties, and the overall structure of their respective pantheons. Whether in verse or prose form, theogonies play a crucial role in deciphering the beliefs, cosmology, and spiritual systems of ancient cultures.
The generation or genealogy of the gods; that branch of heathen myth. Which taught the genealogy of their deities.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Theogony" has its origins in ancient Greek. It is derived from the combination of two Greek words: "theos", meaning "god", and "gonia", meaning "birth" or "origin". Therefore, "Theogony" translates to "the birth/origin of the gods" or "the genealogy of the gods". It is the title given to a famous poem written by the ancient Greek poet Hesiod, which recounts the origins and genealogy of the Greek gods and goddesses. The word has been adopted into modern English as a term to refer to any systematic account or study of divine origins or mythology.
