ditheism: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
Very LowFormal, Academic, Technical (Theology/Religious Studies)
Quick answer
What does “ditheism” mean?
The belief that there are two independent divine beings or principles, typically a good god and an evil god, who are coeternal and in conflict.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
The belief that there are two independent divine beings or principles, typically a good god and an evil god, who are coeternal and in conflict.
In broader philosophical or historical contexts, it can refer to any theological system that posits two fundamental divine principles, forces, or gods as the basis of reality, not necessarily limited to a strict moral dualism.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant spelling, pronunciation, or definition differences. Usage is confined to identical academic/theological contexts.
Connotations
Identical scholarly and historical connotations in both dialects.
Frequency
Extremely rare in both everyday and general academic use, appearing almost exclusively in specialised texts on religion, philosophy, or history.
Grammar
How to Use “ditheism” in a Sentence
Adherence to ditheismThe ditheism of [group/doctrine]Ditheism posits/asserts/teaches that...Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “ditheism” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- The ditheistic cosmology of the sect was controversial.
American English
- His thesis explored ditheistic tendencies in early Christian heresies.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Not applicable.
Academic
Primarily used in religious studies, theology, history of religion, and philosophy departments to categorise and analyse specific belief systems.
Everyday
Virtually never used in everyday conversation.
Technical
A precise taxonomic term in comparative religion and the history of theological doctrines.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “ditheism”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “ditheism”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “ditheism”
- Confusing it with 'atheism' (no god) or 'polytheism' (many gods).
- Using it to describe any religion with two main gods (e.g., Greek mythology's Zeus and Hera), which is duotheism/polytheism, not ditheism in the strict sense.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. Ditheism specifically refers to two independent, often opposing, foundational principles or gods (like good vs. evil). Belief in two gods within a larger pantheon (like in Greek mythology) is generally called duotheism or is simply a form of polytheism.
Dualism is a broad philosophical concept that reality consists of two fundamental, opposed principles (e.g., mind/matter, good/evil). Ditheism is a specific type of dualism where these two principles are personified as gods or divine beings.
Classical ditheism, as in Manichaeism, is extinct. Some modern belief systems (e.g., certain forms of Wicca or neopaganism) are duotheistic, honouring a God and Goddess, but this is distinct from the antagonistic, cosmic-scale dualism of historical ditheism.
Christian doctrine is strictly monotheistic (one God). Ditheism, by positing a second, independent divine power of evil (like the Devil as a co-eternal being), challenges the core tenets of God's omnipotence, sovereignty, and unique status as the sole uncreated creator.
The belief that there are two independent divine beings or principles, typically a good god and an evil god, who are coeternal and in conflict.
Ditheism is usually formal, academic, technical (theology/religious studies) in register.
Ditheism: in British English it is pronounced /ˈdaɪθiɪz(ə)m/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈdaɪθiˌɪzəm/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: 'DI' (two) + 'THEISM' (belief in god/s) = belief in TWO gods/principles, like the light and dark sides in a cosmic struggle.
Conceptual Metaphor
THE COSMOS IS A BATTLEFIELD (between two divine forces).
Practice
Quiz
Ditheism is most closely associated with which of the following concepts?