How does this belief differ from Monotheism and Polytheism .
Pantheism is the belief that God and the world are one (McFarland 268) . The name pantheist was introduced by John Toland (Clark and Geisler 8 ) . Pantheism is often confused with polytheism - the belief in many Gods(McFarland 269) . Pantheism is neither a theism nor atheism but is the belief that god is everything (McFarland 268 ) . If you were to look at pantheism roots you would find that "pan" means all and "theos" means God (Clark and Geisler 8 ). .
Pantheism is an ancient philosophy and has become incorporated in many religions such as Buddhism or Hinduism (Schopenhauer 57 ) . Pantheism is not a theism. It does not believe that God is the creator of the universe and the judge of humans . Many pantheist feel the word "God" is too loaded with these connotations and never use the word in their own practice (Harrison Pantheism) . However , Pantheism is more powerful then most religions , because it offers a way for a person to experience religion without commitment ( McFarland 270 ) . .
The central tenet of Pantheism is roughly the same as that of the Stoicism - the belief that God is not a form , but that he is everything and everyone( Clark and Geisler 11) . Pantheism proclaims that nature is supreme to all things and that God dwells in every living object ( Clark and Geisler 11 ). Despite the similarities , Pantheism is distinct , because Pantheist does not recognize nor discredit the existence of God ( Walker Intro. To Atheistic Activism ). Pantheists believe that God does not surpass validity , but instead is innate in it . "All reality is in God beyond him is only illusion" ( Walker Intro. To Atheistic Activism). .
Pantheism participants feel attachment with nature and believe in the return to nature , either through self - discovery or death ( Walker Intro. To Atheistic Activism ) . Some Pantheists believe that one "s afterlife is to be remember by their family and their body being recycled into nature ( Walker Intro To Atheistic Activism ) .