The word "hymnary" is spelled as /ˈhɪmnəri/. The first syllable is pronounced as "him" with a short "i" sound, while the second syllable is pronounced as "nər" with a schwa sound. The spelling of the word comes from the combination of two words, "hymn" and "dictionary," indicating a collection of hymns. This term is commonly used in the context of Christian worship, where a hymnary is a book containing a collection of hymns and songs for use in religious services.
Hymnary is a noun that refers to a comprehensive collection or compilation of hymns. It is essentially a dictionary or a reference book specifically intended for hymns used in religious worship. This term comes from the combination of the words "hymn," which is a religious song or poem typically praising or expressing devotion to a deity, and "ary," a suffix meaning "relating to" or "a place for."
A hymnary serves as a repository of hymns from various religious traditions and denominations. It encompasses a wide range of hymns, including ancient or traditional hymns, hymns composed by well-known figures, contemporary hymns, psalms set to music, and more. It often provides not only the musical scores but also the lyrics, annotations, explanations, and references related to each hymn.
Hymnaries are utilized by both religious worshippers and scholars to explore and study the rich history, diversity, and significance of hymn singing in different faith traditions. They can be found in physical forms as well as digital formats to facilitate easy access and navigation. Hymnaries are frequently used in worship services, choir rehearsals, devotional practices, religious education, and scholarly research in the field of sacred music and hymnology.
In summary, a hymnary is a comprehensive resource containing a varied selection of hymns and related information, designed to support individuals and communities in the musical and spiritual aspects of religious worship.
The word hymnary is derived from the word hymn, which itself traces its origins back to the Greek word hymnos. Hymnos refers to a song or ode typically addressed to a deity or a hero. Over time, the word hymn was adopted into Latin as hymnus and then into various European languages. The suffix -ary is added to hymn to create hymnary, which designates a collection of hymns or a book of hymns. So, the etymology of hymnary can be seen as a combination of the Greek root hymnos with the Latin suffix -ary.