What does 'theism' signify?

Theism signifies the belief in the existence of at least one deity, which encompasses a wide range of religious beliefs that include monotheism (belief in a single deity) and polytheism (belief in multiple deities). This concept is fundamental to various religious traditions, such as Christianity, Judaism, and Islam, where adherents profess a belief in a singular powerful deity, or in Hinduism, where multiple gods are worshipped but still operate under a broader spiritual framework.

In contrast to other beliefs, theism directly addresses the existence of a divine being or beings, highlighting that believers engage with the divine in their spiritual practices and theological thoughts. This central tenet is what distinguishes theism from atheism, which denies divine existence; agnosticism, which questions the knowability of divine existence; and humanism, which emphasizes human values and concerns over divine influence.

Understanding that theism is about recognizing and affirming the existence of deities gives clarity to how various religious practices are rooted in this belief structure. This recognition underlines the various forms and expressions of faith that exist due to theistic beliefs.