CATHARS Meaning and
Definition
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Cathars, also known as the Albigensians, were a religious sect that emerged in the 12th century in the Languedoc region of France. The word "Cathars" itself is derived from the Greek word katharos, meaning "pure" or "clean." The Cathars were considered to be a heretical Christian group by the Catholic Church due to their unique theological beliefs.
The Cathars held dualistic beliefs, which set them apart from mainstream Christianity. They believed in the existence of two gods – a good, benevolent god responsible for the spiritual realm, and an evil, malevolent god who created the material world. They viewed the physical world as inherently corrupt and sought to purify themselves through asceticism and adopting a lifestyle of poverty.
Their religious doctrines also rejected the authority and rituals of the Catholic Church, including the veneration of saints, sacraments, and the hierarchy of the clergy. They instead adhered to their own belief system centered around spiritual purity and personal revelation.
The Cathars gained significant support from local nobility and commoners, which threatened the power and authority of the Catholic Church. As a result, the Church launched a prolonged campaign against the Cathars known as the Albigensian Crusade, which led to the eventual extermination of the sect by the early 14th century.
Despite their eventual demise, the Cathars left a lasting impact on European history and religious thought. Their emphasis on simplicity, spirituality, and the duality of existence continue to inspire fascination and study to this day.
Common Misspellings for CATHARS
Etymology of CATHARS
The word "Cathars" is derived from the Greek word "katharos", which means "pure" or "clean". It refers to a religious group called the Cathars or Albigensians, who emerged in the 11th and 12th centuries in southern France and Italy. The name "Cathars" was given to them by their opponents as a term of derision, as the Cathars believed in achieving spiritual purity through asceticism and rejecting worldly possessions.
Similar spelling words for CATHARS
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