The word ecumenic, spelled /ɛkjuːˈmɛnɪk/, refers to interactions between different Christian denominations or the promotion of unity among them. The "e" in "ecumenic" is pronounced as a short "e" sound, while the "u" is pronounced as a long "u" sound. The "c" is pronounced as a soft "k" sound, and the "m" is pronounced with emphasis. The final "ic" is pronounced as "ik", making it a relatively simple and straightforward word to spell and pronounce.
The term "ecumenic" refers to something that encompasses or relates to the entire inhabited world, or the unity and cooperation among different religious faiths or denominations. Derived from the Greek word "oikoumenikos," meaning "the whole inhabited world," ecumenic describes an inclusive perspective that transcends geographical, cultural, or religious boundaries.
In the context of geography, ecumenic signifies something that pertains to the entire global population, irrespective of nationality or ethnicity. It encompasses the interactions, connections, and shared experiences between diverse people across the planet. Ecumenic can also describe global issues that affect humanity as a whole, such as climate change, peacekeeping efforts, or challenges in the fields of health and education.
When applied to religion, ecumenic denotes the promotion of cooperation, dialogue, and unity among different religious traditions and denominations. It emphasizes the commonalities and shared values between various faiths, rather than focusing solely on differences. Ecumenism strives to foster understanding, respect, and collaboration between different religious communities, with the goal of promoting peace, harmony, and mutual support. It often involves interfaith dialogue, joint worship services, and collaborative social or charitable initiatives.
Overall, ecumenic represents a broad perspective that encompasses the entire world, either in geographical or religious contexts, emphasizing inclusivity, unity, and cooperation among diverse individuals, cultures, and faiths.
General; universal-usually applied to the councils of the Church; also written oecumenical.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "ecumenic" can be traced back to the Greek word "oikoumene", which means "the inhabited world". It was derived from the Greek verb "oikein", meaning "to inhabit". In ancient Greece, oikoumene referred to the known world or the territories that were inhabited by Greek-speaking people.
Eventually, the term "oikoumene" expanded in meaning to encompass the entire civilized world, going beyond just the Greek-speaking regions. It referred to a universal or globally united society that was harmoniously connected.
The word "ecumenic" emerged in English during the 19th century, derived from the French word "oecuménique", which was borrowed from Late Latin "oeumenicus" and ultimately from the Greek "oikoumenikos".