How Do You Spell SENSUS FIDELIUM?

Pronunciation: [sˈɛnsəs fɪdˈiːli͡əm] (IPA)

Sensus fidelium is a Latin phrase that refers to the "sense of the faithful." The correct pronunciation is /sɛnsʊs fɪˈdɛli.ʊm/. The first word, sensus, is pronounced with a short "e" sound as in "set." The second word, fidelium, is pronounced with the stress on the second syllable and a long "i" sound as in "eye" and a short "u" sound as in "put." This phrase is often used to refer to the collective wisdom of the Catholic Church's laity and their understanding of faith and morals.

SENSUS FIDELIUM Meaning and Definition

1. Sensus fidelium is a Latin term that translates to "the sense of the faithful" in English. It refers to the collective consensus or agreement among the faithful members of the Catholic Church regarding matters of belief and doctrine. This concept recognizes that the Holy Spirit guides the entire body of the faithful, not just the hierarchy of the Church, in their understanding of and adherence to the teachings of the Church.

   The sensus fidelium is seen as a source of authority and guidance, as it reflects the shared understanding and belief of the entire Catholic community. It emphasizes the importance of active participation and engagement of the faithful in the life of the Church. The sensus fidelium is rooted in the belief that the Holy Spirit guides and inspires the entire Church, not just its leaders, in discerning truth and in the development of doctrine.

   However, it is important to note that the sensus fidelium is not a democratic vote on matters of doctrine, but rather a recognition of the faith of the Church as a whole. The sensus fidelium is considered alongside other sources of authority, such as Scripture, tradition, and the teaching authority of the Church, in the process of discerning and defining doctrine.

   Overall, sensus fidelium represents the unity, wisdom, and faith of the entire community of believers as an essential element in the life and development of the Catholic Church.

Etymology of SENSUS FIDELIUM

The term "sensus fidelium" is Latin and it translates to "sense of the faithful" or "the sense of the faithful". Etymologically, it can be broken down as follows:

1. Sensus: Derived from the Latin verb "sentire", meaning "to feel" or "to perceive". It refers to the capacity for perception, understanding, or judgment.

2. Fidelium: The genitive plural form of the Latin noun "fidelis", which means "faithful" or "believers" as a collective. It is derived from the adjective "fidelis" meaning "faithful" or "loyal".

Therefore, "sensus fidelium" can be understood as the "perceptive understanding" or "perception" of the "faithful" or "believers" as a whole.