Numen refers to a divine presence or spiritual force that is believed to inhabit certain objects, places, or beings. It is often associated with the idea of a sacred or supernatural essence that inspires reverence and awe. The term is commonly used in religious and philosophical contexts to describe the experience of encountering something greater than oneself. In ancient Roman religion, numen was used to denote the will or power of the gods, often linked to specific deities. This concept has influenced various cultural and spiritual traditions, including animism, where natural elements are thought to possess spiritual significance, and pantheism, which sees the divine in all aspects of the universe.