CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA Meaning and
Definition
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The Catholic Encyclopedia is a comprehensive reference work that provides information on various topics related to the Catholic Church and its teachings. It is a scholarly resource that aims to provide accurate and detailed explanations of Catholic doctrine, history, persons, institutions, and events.
This encyclopedia covers a wide range of subjects, including theology, philosophy, liturgy, canon law, saints, popes, religious orders, and the history of the Church. It contains authoritative articles written by experts in their respective fields, ensuring that the information is reliable and well-researched.
The Catholic Encyclopedia offers in-depth explanations of key Catholic beliefs and practices, offering a valuable resource for theologians, scholars, students, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of the Catholic faith. It serves as a comprehensive compendium of knowledge about all aspects of the Catholic Church.
Originally published in the early 20th century, the Catholic Encyclopedia has been updated and revised multiple times to incorporate new research and developments within the Church. It provides historical context, comparative analysis, and theological insights, making it an indispensable tool for those interested in Catholicism or studying the history and traditions of the Church.
The Catholic Encyclopedia remains an authoritative reference work for both Catholics and non-Catholics alike, providing a reliable and comprehensive source of information about the beliefs, practices, and history of the Catholic Church.
Etymology of CATHOLIC ENCYCLOPEDIA
The word "catholic" originates from the Greek word "katholikos" (καθολικός), which means "universal" or "according to the whole". This Greek term was later adopted into Latin as "catholicus" and ultimately into English as "catholic".
The term "encyclopedia" has its roots in the ancient Greek language as well. It is derived from two Greek words: "enkyklios" (ἐγκύκλιος), meaning "circular" or "general", and "paideia" (παιδεία), meaning "education" or "knowledge". In its original sense, "encyclopedia" referred to a comprehensive body of knowledge that encompassed various subjects or branches of learning.
