The worship of many gods is called polytheism. This term comes from the Greek words ‘poly’, meaning ‘many’, and ‘theos’, meaning ‘gods’. Polytheism is a belief system in which multiple deities are recognized and worshipped, each with their own distinct powers, roles, and attributes.
Throughout history, many cultures have practiced polytheism, including ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman societies. In these traditions, people would often dedicate rituals and offerings to specific gods based on their needs, such as seeking blessings for fertility, harvest, or protection in battle.
Polytheism stands in contrast to monotheism, the belief in a single god, which is a characteristic of religions like Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. Understanding polytheism is crucial to grasping the rich tapestry of religious beliefs and practices that have shaped human civilization.