NECKVERSE Meaning and
Definition
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A neckverse refers to a specific religious phrase or verse that was used during certain periods of history as a test to determine an individual's loyalty to a particular religious institution. The term "neckverse" originates from the medieval practice of binding a book around one's neck and then opening the book at random. The verse that appeared once the book was opened would determine the fate of the individual.
During the reign of Queen Elizabeth I in England, a neckverse was commonly used to identify Catholic sympathizers in a predominantly Protestant society. Known as "Popish Recusants," these individuals were expected to recite a particular verse from the Book of the Psalms, specifically Psalm 118, verse 17. The verse read, "I shall not die, but live, and declare the works of the Lord."
By reciting this verse on command, individuals could prove their allegiance to the Protestant Church of England, thereby avoiding suspicion or persecution. However, failure to recite the neckverse often resulted in serious consequences, including fines, imprisonment, or even death.
The use of neckverses was not limited to religious conflicts in England. Similar practices were employed in different periods and regions, involving various religious sects. Despite being archaic in contemporary society, the concept of a neckverse provides valuable insights into historical methods of religious identification and the challenges faced by religious minorities during times of social or political unrest.
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The verse anciently required to be read by a criminal to entitle him to benefit of clergy, said to be the beginning of the 51st Psalm.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for NECKVERSE
- beckverse
- meckverse
- jeckverse
- heckverse
- nwckverse
- nsckverse
- ndckverse
- nrckverse
- n4ckverse
- n3ckverse
- nexkverse
- nevkverse
- nefkverse
- nedkverse
- necjverse
- necmverse
- neclverse
- necoverse
- neciverse
- neckcerse
Etymology of NECKVERSE
The word "neckverse" has its origins in Middle English, specifically from the combination of "neck" and "verse".
The term "neck" referred to the neck or throat region of a person, while "verse" came from the Old English word "fǣrs", meaning "a line of poetry". In medieval times, it was a common practice that individuals accused of certain crimes, such as treason or heresy, would be forced to recite prayers or religious verses as a way to prove their innocence. The recitation of the prayer or verse would take place while a noose, known as a "neck", was placed around the person's neck, hence the term "neckverse". If the accused individual successfully recited the lines, they would be released because it was believed that divine intervention had allowed them to speak while under the noose, demonstrating their innocence.
Similar spelling words for NECKVERSE
- NGFRS,
- nikiforos,
- nikephoros.
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