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Omnipotence Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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omnipotence

[ɒmˈnɪpətəns ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

philosophical concept

Omnipotence is the quality of having unlimited power and absolute control over all things. It is often attributed to a divine being, such as God, in various religious contexts. The concept raises various philosophical questions about the nature of power, free will, and the existence of evil. In discussions regarding omnipotence, one may encounter paradoxes such as the 'Paradox of the Stone', which questions whether an omnipotent being can create a stone so heavy that it cannot lift it. Overall, omnipotence suggests an incomprehensible level of authority and capability.

Synonyms

all-powerfulness, sovereignty, supremacy.

Examples of usage

  • The omnipotence of God is a central theme in many religions.
  • Philosophers argue about the implications of divine omnipotence.
  • Omnipotence raises questions about moral responsibility.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Philosophy

  • In philosophy, omnipotence raises questions about the nature of power and freedom. Can a being be truly omnipotent if it cannot do illogical things, like creating a stone it cannot lift?
  • The concept challenges thinkers to explore the limitations and implications of such power in discussions about free will and morality.

Religion

  • Many monotheistic religions, such as Christianity and Islam, attribute omnipotence to God, who can do anything that is logically possible.
  • In the Bible, verses describe God as all-powerful, able to create, sustain, and govern the universe.

Literature

  • The theme of omnipotence often appears in fantasy literature, where gods or powerful beings shape the fate of heroes.
  • In Shakespeare's plays, characters grapple with the concept of power over life and death, suggesting a search for understanding one's limitations.

Psychology

  • People often perceive individuals in power (like leaders) as possessing qualities of omnipotence, influencing societal behavior and expectations.
  • Feelings of omnipotence can relate to one's self-esteem or aspirations but can also lead to frustration when faced with reality's limitations.

Origin of 'omnipotence'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'omnis' meaning 'all' and 'potentia' meaning 'power.'
  • It has been used in English since the late 15th century to describe an all-powerful deity.

The term 'omnipotence' comes from the Latin roots 'omni-', meaning 'all', and 'potent', meaning 'powerful'. It first appeared in English in the late Middle Ages, becoming more prominent during the Renaissance when theologians and philosophers began to elaborate on the nature of God and the divine attributes. The word has been used in religious contexts to describe the all-powerful nature of God, especially in monotheistic faiths like Christianity, Judaism, and Islam. Its philosophical implications have sparked numerous debates about the compatibility of omnipotence with human free will and the presence of evil in the world. Over time, 'omnipotence' has maintained its significance in discussions related to theology, philosophy, and ethics.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #19,762, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.