The word “God” in English has a fascinating and layered etymology that traces back through Germanic and Indo-European roots. Here's a breakdown of the linguistic origins of the word “God”.
1. Old English and Proto-Germanic
The English word “God” comes from Old English “god”, which itself derives from Proto-Germanic “gudą”. Cognates include:
Gothic: guþ (spelled g, u, thorn and pronounced goth), and also gudis
Old Norse: guð (spelled g, u, eth)
Old High German: got
Old Dutch and Old Saxon: god
2. Proto-Indo-European Root
The Proto-Germanic “gudą” (spelled g, u, d, ogonek) likely comes from the Proto-Indo-European root, which is a passive participle meaning something like: “That which is invoked” (from the root word meaning “to call” or “to invoke”.). Alternatively, some scholars suggest it could relate to libation or pouring, linking it to ritual offerings.
3. Christian Influence
The word “God” entered the English language after the Christian scriptures were written during a time when the language still had grammatical gender. Originally neuter, it later became masculine as Christianity spread. The use of “God” became dominant to refer specifically to the Christian deity, distinguishing it from pagan uses. While “God” is Germanic in origin, Semitic languages have their own ancient terms: some related Semitic Terms:
Hebrew: El, Elohim
Aramaic: Elah
Arabic: Ilah, Allah
These derive from a root meaning “strong” or “mighty one”, and are not linguistically related to the Germanic “God,” though they serve similar theological functions.
In Unity “God” is considered to be a basic principle of the Universe(s). It is not a gendered Old Man in the sky because it is omnipresent—applies everywhere—just like mathematics.
08/17/25