Calvinist Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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calvinist
[หkalvษชnษชst ]
Definitions
religious doctrine
A follower of the Protestant theologian John Calvin, who believed in predestination and the sovereignty of God in all aspects of life.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| calvinist |
Use when referring specifically to the followers of the theologian John Calvin or the doctrinal system known as Calvinism, which places strong emphasis on the sovereignty of God, predestination, and the total depravity of man.
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| Protestant |
Use when referring to the broad Christian movement that originated with the Reformation, including all denominations that broke away from the Roman Catholic Church. It is a more general term and not specific to any particular doctrines like Calvinism.
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| reformed |
Use when referring to specific churches or denominations within Protestantism that adhere to Reformed theology, which includes but is not limited to Calvinist doctrines. It often emphasizes the authority of the Bible and a covenantal understanding of God's relationship with humanity.
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Examples of usage
- Many Calvinists believe that God has already predetermined who will be saved and who will be damned.
- Calvinists emphasize the importance of living a life in accordance with God's will.
- The Calvinist doctrine of predestination has been a topic of debate among theologians for centuries.
pejorative
A person who is perceived as strict, moralistic, or intolerant, often in a religious context.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| calvinist |
Use this term when referring to a follower of Calvinism, a branch of Protestant Christianity founded by John Calvin. It is more specific and appropriate in religious or historical contexts.
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Examples of usage
- Some people view Calvinists as too rigid in their beliefs.
- The term 'Calvinist' is sometimes used pejoratively to criticize those who are perceived as overly strict or rigid in their beliefs.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- John Calvin was a French theologian who lived in the 16th century and played a key role in the Protestant Reformation.
- The movement started as a reaction to certain practices of the Roman Catholic Church, advocating for a direct relationship with God.
- Calvinists believe in predestination, the idea that God has already chosen who will be saved.
Influence on Society
- Calvinism significantly influenced the development of modern democratic governments, emphasizing the importance of individual conscience.
- Many educational institutions, including Princeton and Yale, were founded by Calvinist groups, highlighting their commitment to learning.
- Protestant work ethic, central to Calvinist beliefs, fostered values of hard work and thrift that shaped various cultures.
Cultural Significance
- The ideas of Calvinism greatly influenced literature, inspiring writers like Nathaniel Hawthorne and Fyodor Dostoevsky.
- In art, some painters depicted Calvinist themes, focusing on moral living and the dichotomy of divine grace and human effort.
- The spread of Calvinism contributed to the rise of several religious denominations, including Presbyterianism.
Philosophical Implications
- Calvinist thought emphasizes Godโs sovereignty, asserting that everything in the universe is under divine control.
- The dilemma of free will versus predestination remains a significant philosophical topic influenced by these teachings.
- Calvinist ethics often challenge believers to consider their responsibilities to others and to society at large.
Modern Context
- Today, Calvinism affects many Protestant denominations worldwide, with millions of adherents in places like the United States and South Korea.
- The principles of Calvinism continue to spark debates within Christianity about interpretations of salvation and grace.
- Some contemporary thinkers link Calvinist ideas to discussions about capitalism and social responsibility.
Origin of 'calvinist'
The term 'Calvinist' originated from the teachings of the Protestant reformer John Calvin in the 16th century. Calvinism emphasizes the sovereignty of God, predestination, and the belief in the absolute authority of the Bible. The influence of Calvinist theology has been significant in the development of Protestantism, particularly in areas such as theology, philosophy, and politics.