Evangelistary is a liturgical book containing texts from the four gospels arranged according to the church calendar. The word is pronounced [ɪˌvændʒəˈlɪstəri] and is spelled with the prefix "evangel" meaning "good news" and the suffix "-ary" indicating a place for keeping something or a person involved in a particular field. The pronunciation is stressed on the third syllable and the letter "g" is pronounced as a soft "j" sound. The complex spelling highlights the book's importance in Christian worship and history.
An evangelistary refers to a liturgical book utilized within the Christian tradition, primarily in the early Church. More specifically, it is a collection of scriptural readings, predominantly from the Gospels, which were intended to be read during worship services or public gatherings. Often adorned with intricate artwork and lavish embellishments, evangelistaries were meticulously crafted manuscripts meant to be revered and treated with utmost veneration.
These sacred texts were important tools for spreading the message of the Gospel and promoting Christian faith. They were typically written by skilled scribes and used exclusively by ordained clergy or those entrusted with reading the Scripture aloud during religious ceremonies. Evangelistaries were predominantly employed during the early medieval period to aid in the propagation of Christian teaching.
Given their historical significance, evangelistaries provide valuable insights into early Christian liturgy and worship practices. These manuscripts can offer scholars and theologians a glimpse into the early development of Christian worship and the manner in which the Gospel was encountered by believers in ancient times. The intricate illustrations and decorative elements within evangelistaries also serve as historical and artistic treasures, showcasing the craftsmanship and religious devotion of their creators.
Although evangelistaries are not as commonly used today, they hold deep cultural, religious, and historical value, offering an avenue for understanding the traditions and practices of Christianity throughout various periods of history.
The word "Evangelistary" is derived from the combination of two words: "evangelist" and "ary".
1. "Evangelist" comes from the Greek word "euangelistes", which means "bringer of good news" or "messenger of good tidings". This word is derived from "euangelion", which means "good news" or "gospel".
2. The suffix "-ary" is common in English and comes from the Latin "-arius". It is used to form nouns indicating a person or thing connected with or engaged in something. It can also denote a place or receptacle for containing something.
Combining these two elements, the word "Evangelistary" thus refers to a collection or book of extracts from the Gospels or sections of the Gospel readings used in Christian liturgical services.