NITHEISM is a way of conceptualizing the GØD concept, a kind of theism, not unlike Unitarianism, but without the kind of bureaucracy which all churches have to have.

Unitheism is not one of the monotheisms. It is not deism, henotheism, polytheism, or atheism. It is really a way of looking at, defining and understanding the nature and concept of the divine beingness which, in my opinion and without judging others’ concepts, makes all the old forms of theism— and there is more than one— obsolete, for me.

Nor is it an organized religion as such, as of yet. If it ever becomes one, I recommend that it be made up of small autonomous groups, with absolutely no hierarchy, possibly operating, with permission, within friendly established churches.

I like the idea of each unit consisting of thirteen families— the model used by Jesus, who, according to the NT, remained a Jew to the end of his life.

I also like the idea for unitheists, who wish to do so, to be free to maintain their church, synagogue, mosque or temple connection, if they have one, with any of the formal religions, of all faiths. Unitheists love being theological bridge builders— always looking for ways which unite, not divide us.

As a unitheist I do not seek to convert those who are happy with what they believe in and hold dear. I do seek to connect with those who are looking for something more than they have to give them more meaning for living.

Why This New Spelling?

For some time now, Orthodox Jews have used 'GØD' as their way of writing the god-concept in English. They use it to indicate the mystery and ineffability involved. I assume that they will not object to this unitheist using the same literary device.

I agree that though the word is relatively new— I first used it in the 1970s or 1980s— unitheism is not a new concept. However, it is not one that is well known. The purpose of my writing these ideas down is to take this idea and get it out there.

Unitheism and Panentheism

Be aware that I see the term unitheism as a doublet of panentheism— GØD is in and through all things— a word I first heard used by the theologian and former Dominican priest, Matthew Fox. But I prefer unitheism, because it helps avoid confusion with pantheism— all things are GØD.

For sure, unitheism values the quality of faith. However it also values the use of scientific theories, reason, and the discoveries of science. Through experience, I have discovered that some atheists are very annoyed by this approach. The reality of GØD is not that easy to dismiss.

Unitheism takes an inclusive, artistic and imaginative approach to matter and mind as partners of the spirit in the whole and holistic creative process. Mind and matter are the raw materials out of which reality is forming, ad infinitum.

To use my way of spelling it: I say that you and I are GØDs who have, by the power of love, the ability to choose to be co-creators with GØD— the ultimate reality. As more and more of us make this our choice, more and more of ultimate reality will become natural reality.

It is up to us, in cooperation with the GØD concept, to help bring order out of chaos.

The Three Components of Nature— Physical, Mental, and Spiritual

Although I believe the pneuma, the spiritual, or the immaterial component is primary, the GØD concept also includes the psyche, or the mental component. It also includes the soma, the physical, or the material component, based on hard and pragmatic facts.

In other words, GØD is as real as we are, and as the next breath we take. GØD is physical, as well as mental and spiritual. I experience GØD with each and all my senses. How more real can we get?

However there is still room for mystery. And perhaps the greatest mystery of all is: GØD— the infinite and eternal, in which we live and move and have our being, is even more than the sum of all these wonderful parts.