The spelling of "profane history" follows the standard English pronunciation rules. "Profane" is pronounced /prəˈfeɪn/ with stress on the second syllable, while "history" is pronounced /ˈhɪstəri/ with stress on the first syllable. Together, the two words form a phrase that refers to the study of non-religious or secular events and activities throughout history. "Profane" in this context means "irreligious" or "non-sacred". Profane history is often contrasted with religious or sacred history.
Profane history refers to the recorded accounts of events, cultures, societies, and individuals that are not considered to be sacred or related to religious beliefs. It encompasses all historical knowledge that is secular and unrelated to religious or spiritual matters. This term is often used in contrast to religious or sacred history, which pertains to the accounts and narratives associated with religious traditions, beliefs, and texts.
Profane history primarily deals with the material, human, social, and political aspects of civilizations throughout time. It focuses on the study and analysis of historical events and figures, their actions, motivations, and consequences, without considering divine or supernatural influences.
The materials used to study profane history can include written documents, archaeological findings, oral traditions, and artifacts. Scholars and researchers in various disciplines, such as history, anthropology, sociology, and archaeology, engage in the exploration, interpretation, and documentation of profane history.
This term highlights the separation between the secular and the divine, acknowledging that historical knowledge can be obtained through means other than religious scriptures or divine revelation. It emphasizes the importance of studying and understanding the non-religious aspects of human civilization and contributes to a comprehensive understanding of the past. Profane history allows for the critical analysis and examination of human achievements, progress, conflicts, and the overall development of societies, cultures, and civilizations.
See history.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The term "profane history" consists of two words: "profane" and "history". Here is the etymology of each:
1. Profane:
The word "profane" comes from the Latin word "profanare", which means "to desecrate" or "to treat something sacred with disrespect". It is derived from the combination of "pro" (meaning "before" or "in front of") and "fanum" (meaning "temple" or "shrine"). Therefore, "profane" originally referred to something that was outside of a temple or sacred place.
2. History:
The term "history" comes from the Latin word "historia", which is derived from the Greek word "histor", meaning "learned" or "wise man". "Historia" originally referred to the narratives or accounts collected by scholars or learned individuals about past events, people, and civilizations.