Nonjuring is a religious term that refers to those who refuse to take an oath of allegiance to a new sovereign or government. The phonetic transcription of Nonjuring is /ˌnɒnˈdʒʊərɪŋ/. The word is derived from 'non-' meaning none or not, and 'juring' which means to swear an oath. Therefore, Nonjuring refers to those who do not swear an oath of allegiance. The word first appeared in the late 17th century and was commonly used during times of political upheaval and religious dissent.
Nonjuring is an adjective that refers to individuals or groups who refuse to take an oath of allegiance or make the required declarations, particularly with regards to religious or political matters. It is commonly used to describe those who decline to conform or swear loyalty to an established authority or system. The term "nonjuring" mainly emerged in the late 17th century in England, during a tumultuous period when religious and political loyalty were fiercely contested.
In a religious context, "nonjuring" typically applies to individuals who refuse to take an oath of allegiance to a newly established religious authority or sovereign, often due to a disagreement with changes in religious doctrine or practices. For example, during the English Reformation, nonjuring clergy were those who refused to swear allegiance to the Church of England after the Act of Uniformity in 1662, instead remaining loyal to the pre-Reformation Church.
Politically, "nonjuring" can refer to those who resist or reject the legitimacy of a governing regime or constitution, often due to ideological differences or ideals of legitimacy. Throughout history, numerous political movements or individuals have been classified as nonjuring, refusing to accept the authority of a particular government or political system. This can include individuals who refuse to swear loyalty oaths, follow laws they deem unjust, or support actions that deviate from their understanding of legitimate rule.
Overall, "nonjuring" denotes a stance of refusal to comply with established norms or authorities in matters of religion or politics, often stemming from deeply held convictions or principles.
Not swearing allegiance.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Nonjuring" originated in the late 17th century in England during a period of religious and political turmoil. It is a combination of two words: "non-" and "juring".
The term "non-" is a prefix derived from the Latin word "non", meaning "not". In English, "non-" is often used to indicate negation, absence, or refusal. In the context of "Nonjuring", it signifies the refusal to obey or conform.
The word "juring" is derived from the Latin verb "jurare", which means "to swear". In English, "juring" refers to taking an oath or making a solemn declaration.
Therefore, "Nonjuring" is a term that describes a group of people who refused to take an oath or swear allegiance to a particular authority or ruler.