BEGUINES Meaning and
Definition
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Beguines are historically recognized as female religious lay members who formed communities centered around a life of devotion, poverty, and charity. Originating in the 12th century in Northern Europe, particularly in the Low Countries, the beguines sought to live a spiritual life outside the confines of traditional religious institutions.
These women, while living collectively, did not take formal religious vows and often maintained their financial independence and property ownership. The beguines were characterized by their commitment to living a simpler life focused on prayer, contemplation, and assistance to the poor and sick. They aimed to embody the virtues of humility, chastity, and selflessness.
Beguinages, or beguinages, were the communities in which the beguines lived. These beguinages consisted of small houses clustered around a central courtyard, often with a chapel or church. They provided a space for the beguines to pursue a life of spiritual devotion while remaining engaged with the world around them.
Although beguine communities peaked in popularity during the 13th and 14th centuries, they gradually declined due to changing social and religious dynamics. Some beguinages still exist today, but their focus has shifted from religious life to a more communal living arrangement. The historical significance of the beguine movement lies in its emphasis on independent spirituality for women within a societal framework dominated by religious institutions.
Common Misspellings for BEGUINES
Etymology of BEGUINES
The word "beguines" has a rather complex etymology. It ultimately derives from the Middle Dutch term "beghen" or "begga", which means "to beg, ask, or "request".
The term "beghine" first appeared in medieval Flanders and the Low Countries in the 13th century to refer to women who led lives dedicated to prayer and good works but were not formal nuns. These women lived in communities called "beguinages" or "beguineries", which were neighborhoods or enclosed spaces where they resided together. "beguine" itself may have originated from the name of Lambert le Bègue, a priest who advocated for these lay religious women.
Over time, the word "beguine" came to represent a variety of different female religious communities across Europe, including both groups who lived in beguinages and those who were affiliated with particular orders.
Similar spelling words for BEGUINES
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