Is Thanos with the Infinity Gauntlet Omnipotent?

When discussing the power of Thanos with the Infinity Gauntlet, the question often arises: is he truly omnipotent? The short answer is no, but understanding why can be a fascinating exploration of comic book lore and storytelling.

Dependency on the Gauntlet

One of the factors that limit Thanos's power is his dependence on the Infinity Gauntlet. As we know from the Marvel Universe, Thanos's entire arsenal of power is contingent upon his access to the six Infinity Stones. The Gauntlet amplifies and synthesizes the energies of the stones, giving him a near-limitless range of abilities. However, if the Gauntlet is lost or the stones are removed, Thanos reverts to his original power level, which is far weaker than the one he achieves with the Infinity Gauntlet.

Cosmic Entities

Even with the Infinity Gauntlet, Thanos often faces beings that are considered even more powerful. Marvel’s cosmic entities, such as Galactus, the Living Tribunal, and the One Above All, are standing examples of entities that surpass Thanos's power. For instance, Galactus is a cosmic devourer of entire worlds, while the Living Tribunal is a high court of justice for the universe. These entities operate beyond the scope of Thanos's powers, forcing him into situations where his might is tested.

Narrative Constraints

In comic book storytelling, characters' powers are often limited by the needs of the plot. Writers and artists sometimes introduce narrative constraints that restrict Thanos's abilities. For example, these limitations can be used to create a more unpredictable and engaging storyline. Whether it's restrictions on his use of power, physical limitations, or deliberate withholdings, internal and external factors can prevent Thanos from acting as an omnipotent figure in the Marvel Universe.

Thanos as a Universal Threat

While Thanos is indeed one of the most powerful beings in the Marvel Universe, he is not considered omnipotent in the absolute sense. As a universal threat, he represents a significant danger to the fabric of reality, but his power has limits. This is illustrated by the fact that his actions and abilities are influenced by the broader narrative needs of the story.

Thanos's Position in the Multiverse

Thanos is not a multiversal or omniversal being, despite his immense power. He exists as a finite entity, confined to one universe at a time, though he has “variants” across the multiverse. Each of these versions of Thanos operates independently, reflecting the different circumstances of the universe they inhabit. To be an omniversal being, one would need to exist as a complete whole across all the collection of places in the multiverse, a concept not easily achieved in fictional universes.

Examples of Omniversal Beings

Examples of characters who are considered omniversal in various fictional universes include:

The One Above All (Marvel Universe): A being of incomparable power who stands at the pinnacle of the Marvel hierarchy. The Presence (DC Universe): A cosmic entity with vast power and authority, comparable to the One Above All in the Marvel Universe. The Glory (Doctor Who Universe): A powerful and ancient being connected to the fabric of the universe, whose existence transcends dimensions.

These beings, like Thanos, are finite entities within their own universes. However, the God-like entities are a step closer to being omniversal, revealing themselves differently to the particular universe they inhabit. In the case of Thanos, he is finite and exists in one universe at a time, not across the multiverse nor the greater omniverse.

Conclusion

While Thanos with the Infinity Gauntlet commands a level of power that borders on omnipotence, he is not truly omniscient, omnipresent, or omnipotent. His power is contingent on the Gauntlet and there are entities and forces that exceed his prowess. Additionally, Thanos's actions and abilities are shaped by the narrative constraints of the Marvel Universe. This makes Thanos a formidable and significant threat within his own universe, but not an omnipotent force in the truest sense of the term.

Excelsior!