Apocrypha: meaning, definitions and examples
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apocrypha
[ əˈpɒkrɪfə ]
biblical literature
The term 'apocrypha' refers to a collection of ancient texts that are associated with religious writings but are not considered canonical or authoritative by certain religious groups, especially in Judaism and Protestant Christianity. These texts often include stories and teachings that are similar to those found in the canonical books but are excluded from the official canon due to various theological reasons. The term can also refer to any obscure or doubtful authenticity writings, often bearing religious or moral significance. Although the apocryphal texts provide insights into the historical and cultural contexts of their time, their status varies widely among different faith traditions.
Synonyms
apocryphal texts, hidden books, non-canonical writings
Examples of usage
- The Apocrypha contains interesting historical narratives.
- Many scholars study the Apocrypha for its theological insights.
- The Church's view on the Apocrypha has evolved over the centuries.
Translations
Translations of the word "apocrypha" in other languages:
🇵🇹 apócrifos
🇮🇳 अपोक्रिफ़ा
🇩🇪 Apokryphen
🇮🇩 apokrif
🇺🇦 апокрифи
🇵🇱 apokryfy
🇯🇵 外典
🇫🇷 apocryphes
🇪🇸 apócrifos
🇹🇷 apokrif
🇰🇷 외경
🇸🇦 كتب منسية
🇨🇿 apokryf
🇸🇰 apokryfy
🇨🇳 伪经
🇸🇮 apokrifi
🇮🇸 apókrifa
🇰🇿 апокрифтер
🇬🇪 აპოკრიფები
🇦🇿 apokriflər
🇲🇽 apócrifos
Etymology
The word 'apocrypha' originates from the Greek term 'apokryphos', which means 'hidden' or 'concealed'. It was first applied in early Christian contexts to refer to a body of writings that were not accepted into the canonical scriptures. The early Church Fathers utilized the term to designate certain texts that they deemed spiritually valuable yet not divinely inspired. Over time, the meaning of 'apocrypha' expanded to include a variety of other writings, both religious and secular, that were considered to lack authenticity or authority. During the Reformation, Protestant reformers distinguished between canonical and apocryphal texts, leading to a clearer delineation in the Christian Bible that emphasized the texts accepted by Protestant traditions. This ongoing debate over the status of the Apocrypha continues to influence biblical scholarship and religious discussions today.