Divinization: meaning, definitions and examples

Used primarily in religious or theological discussions to describe the process of becoming divine or being made into a god. Often used in a positive or neutral context.

• The divinization of heroes in ancient mythology was a common occurrence

Used in both religious and secular contexts, commonly to describe the act of treating someone as a god. Can have a negative connotation when used to describe excessive admiration or glorification.

• His followers' deification of him was seen as alarming by outsiders

Typically used in literary, historical, or rhetorical contexts to describe the elevation of someone to divine status. Can also mean the epitome of something or its highest point.

• The apotheosis of the emperor was celebrated with grand ceremonies
• Her success marked the apotheosis of her career

Used in both religious and mythological contexts to describe the process of becoming divine or being accorded divine status. Often found in discussions about mythology, ancient religions, or spiritual transformations.

• The ancient texts describe the divinization of the hero after his brave deeds.
• The ritual aimed at achieving divinization and attaining eternal life.

Specifically used in Christian theology to describe the process of becoming more like God through grace, participation in the sacraments, and living a life in accordance with God's will.

• The concept of theosis is central to Eastern Orthodox theology.
• Through prayer and good deeds, believers seek theosis and unity with God.

Typically used in historical, cultural, and religious discussions to refer to the act of making someone or something into a god. This is commonly associated with ancient practices and can carry a slight negative connotation when used to describe the excessive admiration or idealization of a person or thing.

• The deification of emperors was a common practice in ancient Rome.
• Many see the deification of celebrities as a troubling trend in modern society.