Nontheistic: meaning, definitions and examples

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nontheistic

 

[ ˌnɑːnθiˈɪstɪk ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

belief system

Not relating to or involving a belief in a god or gods; specifically : not relating to or involving theistic religions

Synonyms

atheistic, irreligious, secular.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nontheistic

Used when referring to a lack of belief in gods or deities without directly addressing religious belief or atheism. It can describe philosophical or spiritual perspectives that don't involve gods.

  • Buddhism is often considered a nontheistic religion.
  • Her nontheistic worldview emphasizes ethical values derived from human experiences.
atheistic

Used when explicitly stating disbelief in gods or deities. It often involves a clear stance against the existence of gods.

  • The scientist expressed an atheistic viewpoint during the debate about the origins of life.
  • His atheistic beliefs led him to question traditional religious narratives.
secular

Used when describing a separation from religious or spiritual basis, often in a societal or institutional context, such as government or education.

  • The country's legal system is based on secular laws rather than religious principles.
  • He advocates for a secular approach to education, keeping schools free from religious influence.
irreligious

Used when referring to a lack of religious belief or practice. It often implies indifference or rejection of religion without necessarily focusing on disbelief in gods.

  • Despite coming from a religious family, she identifies as irreligious.
  • The town's irreligious population has grown over the years, with many people showing no interest in attending religious ceremonies.

Examples of usage

  • Many Buddhists are nontheistic.
  • Nontheistic philosophies often focus on human values and ethics.
Context #2 | Adjective

worldview

Characterized by a lack of belief in a god or gods; specifically : characterized by a disbelief in the existence of a supreme being or beings

Synonyms

godless, nonreligious, skeptical.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
nontheistic

Used when discussing beliefs systems that do not include a theistic view or belief in gods, such as certain philosophies or forms of humanism.

  • Buddhism is considered a nontheistic religion because it does not advocate belief in a deity
godless

Generally has a negative connotation and is used to criticize or describe someone or something perceived to be without moral or religious values.

  • The pastor warned his congregation about the dangers of living a godless life
nonreligious

Used to describe a person or situation that is not influenced by religion or lacks religious beliefs and practices, without any negative connotations.

  • She identifies as nonreligious but enjoys learning about different cultures and their traditions
skeptical

Typically refers to an attitude of doubt or questioning towards certain beliefs or claims, often used in a broader sense, not necessarily limited to religion.

  • His skeptical nature made him question the validity of the supernatural claims in the story

Examples of usage

  • His nontheistic worldview shaped his approach to morality.
  • Nontheistic individuals often find meaning in human connections and nature.

Translations

Translations of the word "nontheistic" in other languages:

🇵🇹 nãoteísta

🇮🇳 अधार्मिक

🇩🇪 nicht theistisch

🇮🇩 nonteistik

🇺🇦 нетеїстичний

🇵🇱 nieteistyczny

🇯🇵 非神論的 (ひしんろんてき)

🇫🇷 non théiste

🇪🇸 no teísta

🇹🇷 teistik olmayan

🇰🇷 비신론적 (非神論的)

🇸🇦 لاأدري

🇨🇿 neteistický

🇸🇰 neteistický

🇨🇳 非神论的 (fēi shén lùn de)

🇸🇮 neteističen

🇮🇸 ekki guðfræðilegur

🇰🇿 теистік емес

🇬🇪 ნონთეისტური

🇦🇿 nontheistik

🇲🇽 no teísta

Etymology

The term 'nontheistic' emerged in the late 19th century as a way to describe beliefs or worldviews that do not involve a belief in a god or gods. It is often used in contrast to theistic religions or belief systems. Nontheistic perspectives can be found in various philosophical and religious traditions, including certain forms of Buddhism, Humanism, and atheism. The concept of nontheism continues to evolve as discussions around belief systems and spirituality expand.