numinous
UK: ˈnjuːmɪnəs | US: ˈnuːmɪnəs
adj. relating to a spiritual or divine presence; evoking a sense of awe or mystery
adj. having a strong religious or spiritual quality; sacred
numinous = numen<divine will> + ous<adjective suffix>
- numen: From Latin numen ("divine will, divine presence"), derived from nuere ("to nod"), symbolizing divine approval or command.
- ous: A suffix forming adjectives, indicating possession or quality (e.g., "mysterious," "gracious").
Etymology Origin:
Coined by German theologian Rudolf Otto in The Idea of the Holy (1917), numinous blends Latin numen (divine authority) with the English suffix -ous to describe an overwhelming spiritual presence. The word captures the awe-inspiring, transcendent quality of the divine, rooted in the ancient idea of gods "nodding" their will into existence.
The ancient temple had a numinous atmosphere that left visitors speechless.
Her poetry often explores numinous experiences beyond human understanding.
The forest at dawn felt numinous, as if touched by something sacred.
He described the music as numinous, evoking a deep spiritual connection.
The ritual was designed to invoke the numinous power of the ancestors.