PRIVATE REVELATION Meaning and
Definition
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Private revelation refers to a divine message or communication that is experienced by an individual or a select group of individuals, distinct from those revelations that are recognized and accepted by an established religious tradition. It typically involves a personal encounter with the divine through mystical experiences, visions, dreams, or other extraordinary phenomena. These revelations are believed to be of spiritual significance and often serve as guidance, instruction, warning, or encouragement to the recipients.
Unlike public or universal revelations, which are considered binding for a particular religious community, private revelations are not universally recognized or obligatory for all believers. They are considered a personal manifestation of divine grace and are not necessarily intended to establish new doctrines or alter existing ones. However, private revelations are often seen as enriching and enhancing one's faith, providing additional insights into the divine mysteries, and deepening the personal relationship with the divine.
Private revelations can occur within various religious contexts and are often associated with saints, mystics, or exceptionally devout individuals who are seen as being especially receptive to divine communications. While private revelations are highly valued by those who receive them and can have a profound impact on their spiritual lives, they are subject to scrutiny and discernment by religious authorities to ensure their compatibility with the teachings and traditions of the faith.
Etymology of PRIVATE REVELATION
The word "private" comes from the Latin word "privatus", which means "set apart, belonging to oneself, not public". It originated from the combination of the Latin words "privus", meaning "single, individual", and "avus", meaning "ancestor, paternal grandfather".
The word "revelation" comes from the Latin word "revelare", which means "to unveil, reveal". It is derived from the combination of the Latin prefix "re-", meaning "back, again", and the Latin verb "velare", meaning "to cover, veil".
Therefore, the etymology of the term "private revelation" suggests that it refers to a personal or individual unveiling or disclosure of information, separate from public or universally recognized revelations.
