numen Definition
a divine power or spirit that inhabits an object, place, or living being.
Using numen: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "numen" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The ancient Greeks believed that every tree had a numen.
Example
The shaman invoked the numen of the forest to heal the sick child.
Example
The temple was built to honor the numen of the river.
Example
The sailors prayed to the numen of the sea for safe passage.
numen Synonyms and Antonyms
Synonyms for numen
- divine presence
- divine spirit
- divine force
Phrases with numen
Example
The university's motto is 'Numen Lumen', which means 'God is our light'.
locus numinis
a Latin phrase meaning 'place of the divine'
Example
The ancient stone circle was considered a locus numinis by the druids.
an encounter with the divine or supernatural that inspires awe and reverence
Example
The mystic had a numinous experience while meditating in the cave.
Origins of numen
from Latin 'numen', meaning 'divine will or nod'
Summary: numen in Brief
'Numen' [ˈnuːmən] refers to a divine power or spirit that is believed to inhabit an object, place, or living being. It is a concept found in many ancient religions and cultures, such as the Greeks and the druids. Examples of its use include 'The sailors prayed to the numen of the sea for safe passage.' and 'The temple was built to honor the numen of the river.'
