HAGIOLATRY Meaning and
Definition
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Hagiolatry is a term derived from the combination of the Greek words "hagios," meaning holy, and "latreia," meaning worship. It refers to the excessive or exaggerated veneration and adoration of saints or holy persons within certain religious traditions, particularly within the context of Christianity.
In the practice of hagiolatry, individuals may elevate saints to a higher status than mere intercessors or mediators between humans and the divine. Instead, they may believe that these saints possess supernatural powers or possess an intimate connection with the divine. As a result, devotees may engage in various acts of devotion, such as offering prayers, lighting candles, making pilgrimages to their shrines or relics, or seeking their assistance for specific needs or prayers.
Hagiolatry is often associated with more traditional or orthodox forms of Christianity, particularly within certain branches such as Roman Catholicism and Eastern Orthodoxy. In these traditions, saints play a significant role in religious life, and their veneration is considered a legitimate expression of faith. However, hagiolatry can sometimes be criticized by other branches of Christianity as bordering on idolatry or diminishing the exclusive significance of Christ as the central figure of salvation.
Overall, hagiolatry involves an intense devotion to saints beyond what is considered normal religious practice, and it continues to be an important aspect of worship for many individuals within specific religious contexts.
Common Misspellings for HAGIOLATRY
- gagiolatry
- bagiolatry
- nagiolatry
- jagiolatry
- uagiolatry
- yagiolatry
- hzgiolatry
- hsgiolatry
- hwgiolatry
- hqgiolatry
- hafiolatry
- haviolatry
- habiolatry
- hahiolatry
- hayiolatry
- hatiolatry
- haguolatry
- hagjolatry
- hagkolatry
Etymology of HAGIOLATRY
The word "hagiolatry" is derived from two Greek roots: "hagios" meaning "holy" or "saint", and "latreia" meaning "worship" or "adoration". When combined, these roots form "hagiolatry" which refers to the excessive veneration or worship of saints.
