HIEROPHOBIA Meaning and
Definition
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Hierophobia is a noun that refers to an irrational or excessive fear or aversion towards sacred or religious objects, places, rituals, or practices. The term hierophobia combines the Greek words "hieros" meaning sacred, religious, or holy, and "phobos" translating to fear. It manifests as a deep-seated anxiety or dread associated with anything related to religion or religious beliefs.
Individuals experiencing hierophobia may find themselves avoiding religious institutions, ceremonies, and paraphernalia. Their fear might stem from personal traumatic experiences, childhood indoctrination, or negative associations with organized religion. The precise causes can vary from person to person. Hierophobia can manifest in different ways, ranging from mild discomfort or uneasiness when confronted with religious symbols or discussions to severe panic attacks or anxiety symptoms.
It is important to note that hierophobia should not be confused with atheism or simple religious disinterest. Unlike those who are not religious or do not practice any religious beliefs, individuals with hierophobia may experience profound anxiety or distress when confronted with religious aspects. This fear may interfere with their daily life, relationships, and general well-being.
Therapeutic approaches, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy, may help hierophobic individuals manage their fear and gradually overcome their phobia. In some cases, exposure therapy may be used to desensitize the person to religious settings or objects, allowing them to gradually confront their fears and regain control over their anxiety.
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Morbid fear or awe of sacred things; a neurosis sometimes affecting priests upon attempting to perform their ritual duties.
A practical medical dictionary. By Stedman, Thomas Lathrop. Published 1920.
Common Misspellings for HIEROPHOBIA
- hierophocia
- hierophobya
- hierophobaa
- hierophobma
- hierophobha
- hierophobii
- hierophobie
- hierophobic
- higherophobia
- hierophoebia
- h ierophobia
- hi erophobia
- hie rophobia
- hier ophobia
- hieroph obia
- hieropho bia
- hierophob ia
- hierophobi a
Etymology of HIEROPHOBIA
The word "hierophobia" derives from two Greek roots: "hiero" meaning "sacred" or "holy", and "phobia" meaning "fear" or "aversion". The term comes from Ancient Greek, where "hieros" (ἱερός) means "holy" or "sacred", and "phobos" (φόβος) means "fear" or "terror". When combined, "hierophobia" refers to an irrational or excessive fear or aversion towards sacred or religious things.
