ABERDEEN BREVIARY Meaning and
Definition
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The Aberdeen Breviary refers to a Latin liturgical book used in Scotland during the medieval period. It was a compilation of religious prayers, psalms, hymns, and scripture readings, organized in a daily cycle for recitation by clergy and other members of religious orders.
The term "Aberdeen" in the name refers to the city in northeast Scotland where this particular breviary was produced and used. The Aberdeen Breviary was first compiled and published in the early 16th century, specifically in 1509, and was an important tool for the liturgical practices of the Catholic Church in Scotland at the time.
The breviary served as a guide for priests and monks in their daily worship, providing them with a structured outline of prayers and readings to be recited throughout the day. It contained texts for the different liturgical hours, such as Matins, Lauds, Prime, Terce, Sext, None, Vespers, and Compline. Additionally, it included various calendars and instructions for the celebration of feast days and other religious observances.
The Aberdeen Breviary is significant because it reflects the religious traditions and customs specific to Scotland during the medieval era. It reveals the distinctive liturgical practices of the Scottish Church and demonstrates the influence of local saints and holy figures. The content of the breviary also serves as a valuable historical and cultural resource, contributing to our understanding of medieval Scottish religious life and worship practices.
Etymology of ABERDEEN BREVIARY
The word "Aberdeen" in "Aberdeen Breviary" refers to the city of Aberdeen, which is located in the northeast of Scotland. The term "breviary" comes from the Latin word "breviarium", which means "summary" or "abridgment". In this context, the Aberdeen Breviary is a medieval liturgical book or breviary that was used by the Catholic Church in Aberdeen in the 15th century. It contains prayers, psalms, hymns, and other texts used in the daily worship of the church.
