Translation guide
The belief in or worship of multiple gods. In Japanese, this concept is most commonly expressed using the term 多神教, but related expressions exist for specific contexts.
The belief in or worship of multiple gods as a religious system.
The standard, neutral term for polytheism as a religious category. Used in academic, religious, and everyday contexts.
Ancient Greek religion is polytheistic.
In polytheism, gods are believed to be involved in natural phenomena and human activities.
Refers more to the doctrine or theory of polytheism, often used in philosophical or theological discussions.
His paper discusses the origins of polytheism.
Literally 'worship of many gods,' emphasizing the act of worship rather than the belief system. Less common, but can be used in descriptive contexts.
Polytheistic worship is still practiced in this region.
Adjectival use to describe a religion, culture, or worldview that involves many gods.
The adjectival form using の to modify a noun. This is the most natural way to say 'polytheistic' in Japanese.
a polytheistic belief system
Japan is sometimes said to be a polytheistic country.
An adjectival form using 的, often used in more formal or written contexts. It can sound slightly more abstract.
a polytheistic worldview
Expressing polytheism in contrast to monotheism, often in comparative contexts.
A common pattern to explicitly contrast polytheism with monotheism. Useful in explanations or debates.
Christianity is monotheistic, but Hinduism is polytheistic.
多神教 (たしんきょう) is the common word for polytheism as a religious system. 多神論 (たしんろん) is more academic and refers to the theory or doctrine of polytheism. In everyday conversation, 多神教 is preferred.
Polytheism is found in many cultures.
I study the history of polytheism (as a doctrine).
When talking about Japanese traditional religion, it's common to say 日本は多神教です (Japan is polytheistic) or 日本の宗教は多神教的です (Japanese religion is polytheistic). However, many Japanese people may not use the term 多神教 in daily life; instead, they might describe the presence of many gods (八百万の神, やおよろずのかみ) without labeling it as an '-ism'.
Polytheism was common in the ancient world.
She wrote a book about polytheism.