The phrase "earthly concern" refers to matters or issues related to the physical world, as opposed to spiritual or otherworldly concerns. The spelling of this phrase is straightforward, with each word pronounced as it is spelled. "Earthly" is pronounced /ˈərθli/ or "URTH-lee," while "concern" is pronounced /kənˈsɜrn/ or "kuhn-SURN." Together, the phrase is pronounced /ˈərθli kənˈsɜrn/ or "URTH-lee kuhn-SURN." Its meaning emphasizes focusing on practical or realistic matters in everyday life, rather than on abstract or theoretical concepts.
Earthly Concern - noun
Definition: An "earthly concern" refers to any matter or issue that is connected to the physical realm or material world rather than religious, spiritual, or otherworldly pursuits. It encompasses the practical and tangible aspects of life, focusing on mundane or terrestrial matters that are essential for survival or everyday living.
An earthly concern is typically associated with the fundamental needs and pursuits of human beings, such as work, family, health, education, money, social relationships, and societal obligations. It pertains to the affairs that are directly related to our daily existence, emphasizing the here and now rather than the metaphysical or transcendental.
The term "earthly concern" is often used in contrast to matters of a higher or spiritual nature. Its usage may suggest a limited or restricted perspective that primarily concentrates on material possessions, aspirations, and temporal priorities. While an earthly concern is vital for addressing practical aspects of human life, it can also connote an excessive preoccupation with worldly affairs that disregards or undervalues spiritual or moral dimensions.
In a broader context, the concept of earthly concern denotes the universal human tendency to prioritize immediate, tangible needs and goals over abstract, intangible aspirations, potentially leading to a neglect of the spiritual or transcendental aspects that may enrich one's existence.
The term "earthly concern" is a phrase that emerged in Middle English.
The word "earthly" is derived from the Old English word "eorþlīc", which means "pertaining to Earth" or "related to the world". It is a combination of "eorþe" meaning "earth" and "-līc" meaning "like" or "related to".
The term "concern" has its origins in the Latin word "concernere", which means "to sift" or "to separate". Over time, it evolved to mean "to be related to" or "to have an important connection to something".
When these two words are combined, "earthly concern" refers to matters or issues that are connected to or involved in the earthly or mundane world, as opposed to spiritual or heavenly matters.