Pronunciation: [hˈɒlɪwˌɔː] (IPA) 
The spelling of the word "holywar" can be confusing if one tries to pronounce it based on its spelling. The correct pronunciation of this word is /ˈhoʊliwɔr/, with the stress on the first syllable. The word consists of two syllables, "holy" and "war," both of which are pronounced with a long "o" sound. The "y" in "holy" is pronounced like the "i" in "it," while the "w" in "war" is pronounced as a soft "v."
Holy war is a term used to describe a conflict or struggle that is motivated or justified by religious beliefs, usually involving violence and intense devotion to a particular faith or religious ideology. It is a concept deeply rooted in history, particularly within the context of religion and warfare.
In a holy war, the combatants view themselves as fighting for a divine cause, often believing that their actions are sanctioned or commanded by a higher power. This sense of divine approval, coupled with the pursuit of religious objectives, distinguishes holy wars from regular conflicts.
Holy wars have been prominent in various religious traditions, including Christianity, Islam, and to a lesser extent, Judaism and other faiths. They typically arise from deep-seated religious conflicts, territorial disputes, or historical grievances. The term often implies a conflict that is driven not only by political or strategic interests but also by a deeper spiritual motivation.
One notable aspect of holy wars is the strong religious fervor exhibited by the participants, often leading to intense devotion and willingness to sacrifice their lives for their cause. These conflicts can result in significant loss of life and have profound societal implications as they often engender long-lasting divisions and enmity between different religious groups.
It is important to note that the term "holy war" does not always accurately represent the beliefs or practices of an entire religious community and may be used to describe a conflict that does not align with the core principles of a particular religion.
The word "holy war" originated from Middle English, blending the Old English word "hālig" (meaning "holy") and the Old English word "wierre" (meaning "war"). The term was first recorded in the 14th century and referred to a religious or sacred war waged in the name of a deity or a religious cause.
