God Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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god
[ษกษd ]
Definitions
spiritual
A deity or supreme being; the creator and ruler of the universe.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| god |
Lowercase 'god' is used to refer to gods and goddesses in polytheistic religions, as well as mythological beings. It is not specific to any single supreme being.
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| deity |
Deity is a more formal and scholarly term used to describe a god or goddess in various religious traditions, including polytheistic beliefs.
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| divinity |
Divinity refers to the quality of being divine or godlike. It can also denote a god or goddess in various religious contexts. It's often used in academic or philosophical discussions.
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| lord |
Lord is often used as a title for the supreme being in certain religious traditions, particularly in Christianity. It can also refer to a person who has power or authority, such as in a feudal system.
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Examples of usage
- Many people believe in one God.
- God is often seen as omnipotent and omniscient.
religious
The object of worship in monotheistic religions.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| god |
This term is often used in monotheistic religions to refer to the supreme being who is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent. It can be used in both formal religious contexts and casual discussions about faith.
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| deity |
The term 'deity' is used when talking about gods and goddesses, especially in polytheistic religions where there is more than one god. It is often used in academic or formal contexts.
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| divinity |
โDivinityโ is a broader term that can refer to the state of being divine or godlike. It is often used in theological discussions or in contexts where the divine nature or aspects are being highlighted.
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| lord |
Often used as a respectful title for God in Christian traditions, โlordโ signifies authority and reverence. Itโs also used in phrases like 'Lord of the universe.' In British contexts, it can denote a noble rank and has secular uses.
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Examples of usage
- Christians believe in the Holy Trinity - God the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.
- In Islam, Allah is the only God.
expression
Used to express strong feelings of surprise, shock, or exasperation.
Synonyms
goodness gracious, heavens, wow.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| god |
Indicates a specific deity, usually in monotheistic religions like Christianity, Judaism, and Islam; often capitalized.
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| goodness gracious |
An old-fashioned or polite exclamation of surprise, delight, or shock; often used by older generations.
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| heavens |
A mild exclamation used to express surprise or emotion, less formal and slightly old-fashioned.
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| wow |
A casual, modern exclamation of amazement or admiration; appropriate in informal settings.
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Examples of usage
- Oh my God, I can't believe it!
- God, why is this happening to me?
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word 'god' comes from the Old English term 'god', which is related to the German word 'Gott' and means a deity or supreme being.
- In many ancient cultures, gods were associated with natural elements like the sun, moon, and water, representing the power of nature.
- The concept of a god has evolved across history, from polytheism, believing in many gods, to monotheism, believing in one god.
Cultural Perspectives
- Different cultures have their own gods: Hinduism has many deities like Vishnu and Shiva, while Christianity and Islam worship one god, known as God or Allah.
- The concept of gods in mythology often includes stories of creation, morality, and human origins, such as the Greek godsโ tales of heroism and hubris.
- In many indigenous cultures, gods are often seen as interconnected with nature, emphasizing the importance of environmental respect.
Psychology
- Believing in a god or higher power can provide emotional support in hard times and help individuals cope with stress and uncertainty.
- Studies show that people who identify with a religious faith often report higher levels of happiness and life satisfaction.
- The belief in deities can also influence ethical behavior, as many religions teach moral principles tied to their understanding of god.
Literature
- The theme of gods appears frequently in literature, from epic tales like Homer's 'Iliad', which explores the influence of gods on human fate.
- Modern books often reinterpret the concept of god, as seen in works like Neil Gaiman's 'American Gods' that mixes mythology with contemporary society.
- In poetry, gods symbolize ultimate beauty, truth, and the unexplainable, often reflecting humanityโs search for meaning.
Science and Philosophy
- Philosophers have debated the existence of god for centuries, presenting arguments such as the cosmological argument, which questions the origin of existence.
- The concept of god raises profound questions about the nature of reality, morality, and humanityโs purpose in the universe.
- Some scientists argue that understanding the universe through science can coexist with a belief in god, as it offers a different lens to view existence.
Origin of 'god'
The word 'God' has its origins in Old English, derived from the Proto-Germanic word 'gudan'. The concept of a supreme being or deity has been a central figure in various religions and beliefs throughout human history. Different cultures have their own interpretations and representations of God, leading to a diversity of religious practices and beliefs.
See also: goddess, godless, godlike, godliness, godly, godmother, gods.