Baptized Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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baptized
[ˈbæptaɪzd ]
Definition
religious ceremony
To be baptized is to undergo a religious ceremony in which a person is initiated into a faith or community, often accompanied by the use of water. This ritual symbolizes purification, spiritual rebirth, and the person's acceptance into a religious community. In the Christian tradition, baptism is considered one of the sacraments and is often performed on infants or new converts as an important step in their faith journey. It can also signify a public declaration of one's beliefs.
Synonyms
anointed, christened, initiated.
Examples of usage
- She was baptized as an infant.
- He decided to be baptized after his conversion.
- Many people are baptized in a church ceremony.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many cultures around the world have rituals similar to baptism, representing purification or initiation into a community.
- In the Christian tradition, baptism is often associated with the belief in Jesus Christ and his teachings.
Historical Context
- The practice of baptism dates back to ancient times, with various forms observed in cultures long before Christianity.
- The New Testament describes Jesus being baptized by John the Baptist, a pivotal moment that established the ritual's importance.
Modern Practices
- In many Christian denominations, infants are baptized to symbolize their acceptance into the faith, often accompanied by family celebrations.
- Some churches have adopted different methods of baptism, including sprinkling water or full immersion in a river or baptismal pool.
Philosophical Reflections
- Baptism is often viewed as a metaphor for starting anew or personal transformation, representing a change in one’s life.
- The symbolism of water in baptism reflects the themes of cleansing, rebirth, and the cycle of life.
Origin of 'baptized'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Greek word 'baptizo', meaning 'to immerse' or 'to dip' in water.
- In early Christianity, the act of being baptized was seen as an important step to join the faith.
The word 'baptized' comes from the Greek word 'baptizo,' which means 'to immerse, to plunge, or to dip.' The practice of baptism has historical roots in ancient rituals of purification found in many cultures and religions. Early Christians adopted and adapted this rite, giving it a new spiritual significance in the context of Jesus' teachings and the New Testament. The act of baptism symbolizes not only purification and cleansing but also the believer's identification with the death, burial, and resurrection of Christ. Over the centuries, different Christian denominations have developed their own unique interpretations and practices surrounding baptism, making it a vital part of religious ceremonies worldwide.