The masculine gender of "goddess" is god.
In English, "god" is the direct masculine counterpart to "goddess," referring to a male deity or a supreme being. While "god" can sometimes be used more broadly, its specific gendered meaning becomes clear when contrasted with "goddess."
Understanding the Terms and Their Origins
The concept of gendered deities is common across various mythologies and religious traditions. For example, in Hinduism, the Sanskrit word for 'goddess' is Devī (देवी). Its masculine form is deva (देव). Both Devī and deva carry the meaning of 'heavenly' or 'divine' and are used as gender-specific terms for deities.
The following table illustrates these relationships:
| Gender | English Term | Sanskrit Equivalent | General Meaning/Context |
|---|---|---|---|
| Feminine | Goddess | Devī (देवी) | A female deity, often associated with nurturing, creative, or destructive powers. |
| Masculine | God | Deva (देव) | A male deity, typically associated with power, protection, or specific domains. |
Linguistic and Cultural Significance
Understanding the linguistic roots of these terms provides deeper insight into their cultural significance. The terms Devī and deva are not just direct translations but embody a rich theological context within Hinduism, where specific deities are venerated based on their gender, roles, and attributes. For further details on the term "Devi" and its broader implications, you can explore its Wikipedia page.
Key Points
- The most common masculine equivalent for "goddess" in English is "god."
- From a linguistic perspective, particularly in Sanskrit, the pair Devī (goddess) and deva (god) represent gender-specific divine entities.
- These terms signify 'heavenly' or 'divine' beings, holding significant roles in various belief systems, notably Hinduism.
