What term refers to the temporary elevation of one of many gods to the highest rank?

The term that refers to the temporary elevation of one of many gods to the highest rank is henotheism. Henotheism acknowledges the existence of multiple gods but focuses on the worship of one specific god at a time, often elevating that god above the others in certain contexts or for specific purposes. This practice allows for the recognition and reverence of numerous deities, yet emphasizes a chosen deity depending on the situation.

In contrast, polytheism refers to the belief in and worship of multiple gods without a hierarchy or preference among them. Monotheism denotes the belief in a single, all-powerful deity, denying the existence of any other gods. Animism is the belief that objects, places, and creatures possess a spiritual essence, and does not specifically involve the hierarchy of deities. Each of these terms describes distinct religious perspectives, with henotheism specifically capturing the idea of temporarily favoring one god over others within a polytheistic framework.