Annunciation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📯
annunciation
[əˌnʌn.siˈeɪ.ʃən ]
Definition
religious context
The Annunciation refers to the announcement made by the Archangel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary, in which he informed her that she would conceive the Son of God, Jesus Christ. This event is celebrated in Christian tradition, particularly within the context of the Nativity of Jesus. It signifies Mary's acceptance of God's will and is considered a pivotal moment in the Christian narrative of salvation. The feast of the Annunciation is observed on March 25, nine months before Christmas.
Synonyms
announcement, declaration, notification.
Examples of usage
- The painting depicts the Annunciation to Mary.
- In church, they celebrated the feast of the Annunciation.
- The Annunciation is an important event in Christianity.
- Many artists have portrayed the Annunciation in their works.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religious Significance
- In Christianity, the Annunciation refers specifically to the announcement by the angel Gabriel to the Virgin Mary about the birth of Jesus.
- This event is celebrated on March 25 each year in the Christian liturgical calendar.
- Many artists throughout history, including Leonardo da Vinci and Fra Angelico, have depicted this moment in paintings.
Literature
- The Annunciation theme appears in various literary works, symbolizing the moment of inspiration or revelation.
- In poetry, it often represents a turning point, similar to how characters undergo transformational announcements.
- Writers have used the motif to explore themes of acceptance, destiny, and divine intervention.
Cultural Impact
- The announcement has influenced cultural practices, including celebrations and artistic expressions across various societies.
- In some cultures, the celebration includes rituals and festivals that mark significant changes or beginnings.
- The motif of the announcement has been interpreted in contemporary art and performance, highlighting its ongoing relevance.
Psychology
- Making significant announcements can trigger a range of psychological responses, from joy to anxiety, depending on the message.
- The way announcements are made can affect interpersonal dynamics and communication effectiveness.
- Research shows that how an announcement is framed can influence people's emotional reactions and interpretations.
Origin of 'annunciation'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin term 'annuntiatio,' meaning 'announcement' or 'declaration.'
- In Middle English, it evolved into 'annunciacioun' before taking its current form.
- The term has roots in both ecclesiastical contexts and legal proclamations.
The term 'Annunciation' comes from the Latin word 'annuntiatio', which means 'announcement'. The Latin 'annuntiare', made up of 'ad-' (to) and 'nuntiare' (to announce), roots the word in its fundamental meaning of making something known or proclaiming it. The concept has been present in Christian theology since the early days of the Church. As Christianity spread throughout Europe, the story of the Annunciation became central to Marian devotion. Over the centuries, the Annunciation has inspired countless works of art, literature, and music, reflecting its significance in Christian teachings. The event emphasizes themes of acceptance, faith, and divine intervention, making it a profound narrative within the timeline of biblical events.