The phrase "wages peace" is often used as a call to action for people to work towards creating a peaceful world. The spelling of the word "wages" can be explained phonetically as /ˈweɪdʒɪz/. The first syllable, "way," is pronounced like the word for a path or route, while the second syllable, "ges," rhymes with "pages." The word "peace" is spelled phonetically as /piːs/, with a long "ee" sound in the first syllable and a soft "s" at the end. Together, the phrase is pronounced like "way-jiz peace."
"Wages peace" is a phrase that denotes the conscious and active pursuit of peace through various means, often involving diplomatic efforts, negotiations, and nonviolent actions. It signifies the taking of deliberate steps and actions to resolve conflicts, promote harmony, and establish stable relationships between individuals, groups, nations, or even within oneself.
The term "wages" implies a proactive approach that involves investing effort, resources, and time in order to attain the desired outcome of peace. It suggests that peace is not a passive state, but rather something that needs to be actively pursued and fought for. Just as one "wages war" to engage in conflict, "waging peace" highlights a commitment to engaging in peaceful endeavors.
By employing constructive and nonviolent means, such as dialogue, mediation, empathy, and understanding, those who wage peace seek to create an environment conducive to peaceful coexistence and resolution of conflicts. This may include advocating for human rights, promoting social justice, fostering reconciliation, and preventing violence or aggression.
The concept of "wages peace" extends beyond the absence of physical conflict and encompasses the cultivation of a harmonious and equitable society built on mutual respect and cooperation. It emphasizes the importance of active engagement, perseverance, and dedication in pursuing peace at different levels, whether personal, societal, or global, ultimately contributing to the overall well-being and prosperity of humanity.
The phrase "wages peace" does not have a specific etymology, as it is a combination of two separate words.
1. Wages: The word "wages" is derived from the Old English word "wage" which meant "a payment for services rendered" or "compensation received for work". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "wagiz" which meant "to pledge" or "to wager". Over time, it evolved to signify the payment given in return for work or services.
2. Peace: The word "peace" originated from the Latin word "pax" which meant "freedom from war or conflict". It entered the English language from the Old French word "pais" and ultimately descended from the Proto-Indo-European root word "pag-", meaning "to fasten" or "to fix".