Anathematize Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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anathematize
[əˈnæθ.ə.ma.taɪz ]
Definition
religious condemnation
To anathematize means to formally curse, condemn, or denounce someone or something in a profound or authoritative manner, often in a religious context. This action may involve excommunicating someone from a church or ostracizing them from a community due to their beliefs or actions.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The council decided to anathematize those who opposed the doctrine.
- He was anathematized for his heretical views.
- The organization aimed to anathematize any form of violence.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Usage
- In the Catholic Church, a person who was anathematized faced excommunication from the faith.
- Notable historical figures, like Martin Luther, were anathematized for their ideas that contradicted church teachings.
- Anathemas were often used in councils, where churches would declare specific beliefs to be false.
Cultural Significance
- In literature, authors used the term to symbolize the rejection of societal norms or values.
- The concept of being anathematized appears across various religions, reflecting a common theme of condemnation.
- Modern discussions about ideologies sometimes involve anathematizing certain beliefs for societal harmony.
Psychology
- Anathematizing can evoke a strong emotional response, reinforcing group identity by excluding dissenting opinions.
- It can lead to negative psychological effects on those who are anathematized, including feelings of isolation.
- The act of anathematizing might serve as a defense mechanism for individuals or groups to protect their beliefs.
Pop Culture
- In various movies and TV shows, characters are often anathematized when they oppose the mainstream values.
- Songs and stories sometimes refer to anathemas as a way to depict struggle against societal rejection.
- The theme of being anathematized is reflected in numerous dystopian novels where characters face ostracism for their beliefs.
Origin of 'anathematize'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek 'anathema,' meaning 'a thing dedicated' or 'a curse.'
- In Latin, it transformed into 'anathematisare,' keeping its strong connotation of condemnation.
- It was initially used in religious contexts to denote something that was set apart or cursed by God.
The term 'anathematize' originates from the Greek word 'anathema,' which means 'a thing devoted to evil' or 'a curse.' In historical contexts, anathemas were declarations made by church leaders, particularly in the early Christian Church, to accuse individuals of heresy or wrongdoings, effectively banishing them spiritually and socially. By the time it entered through Latin into English in the Middle Ages, 'anathematize' came to encapsulate not just the act of cursing but also an exclusion from the community, reflecting the gravity of religious and moral transgressions. The usage of this word would evolve alongside the shifting dynamics of societal beliefs and ecclesiastical authority, signifying deep-rooted conflicts in religious doctrine.