Deity

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Religion

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At first glance, a person who is investigating the entire "God" concept for the first time might conclude that all of these diverse deities are purely human creations. That is: God did not create humanity -- humanity created Gods.
[1]

A deity is a somewhat-to-über powerful dude, gal, or creature that has supernatural powers to impact this world. Usually, though not always, someone, somewhere worships said deity. Most people believe that every deity but their own select few are a false deity or mere "mythology".

Gods and goddesses are generally mightier than minor supernatural entities like fairies, elves, or spirits; they can alter natural events and help or harm human beings. Most religions believe in one or more deities with distinct characteristics. Typically polytheistic religions rank their deities, some being dominant over others. Sometimes the supreme deity started the universe up but is no longer involved in human affairs, therefore lower ranking deities that do things for people may be worshiped more intensively than the supreme god. [2]

Sometimes rulers become gods while they are alive as with the Roman emperor and the Egyptian pharaoh. Other times rulers get promoted to become gods after they die.

A thing like money or the free market can become a metaphorical deity, [3] see secular religions.

[edit] Examples

If you're choosing a deity to worship, choose one that's compatible with your values. Mayan god G Kinich Ahau seems easy to get along with.

[edit] Footnotes

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