Consecration Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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consecration

[หŒkษ‘หnsษชหˆkreษชสƒษ™n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

religious ceremony

The act of consecrating or the state of being consecrated; dedication to the service and worship of a deity.

Synonyms

blessing, dedication, sanctification.

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Word Description / Examples
consecration

Typically used in religious contexts to describe the formal act of declaring something sacred or holy, often through a ceremonial ritual.

  • The consecration of the new church was attended by hundreds of parishioners.
  • He felt a profound sense of peace during the consecration ceremony.
dedication

Commonly used in both religious and secular settings to show commitment, often related to setting aside a building, object, or time for a specific purpose.

  • The dedication of the new library will take place next week.
  • Her dedication to her studies is truly admirable.
blessing

Used in both religious and secular contexts to indicate a request for divine favor or approval, often seen as a positive or beneficial thing.

  • The priest gave a blessing to the newlyweds.
  • Your support has been a real blessing in these difficult times.
sanctification

Mainly used in religious contexts to describe the process of becoming holy or being made holy through spiritual practices and divine intervention, often seen as a gradual transformation.

  • The journey of sanctification is a lifelong process for many believers.
  • His writings focus on the sanctification of the soul.

Examples of usage

  • The consecration of the new church was attended by hundreds of parishioners.
  • After the consecration of the temple, daily rituals were performed to maintain its sanctity.
Context #2 | Noun

formal declaration

A formal declaration or ceremony to make something sacred or holy.

Synonyms

benediction, hallowing, ordination.

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Word Description / Examples
consecration

Utilized in religious or ceremonial contexts where an object, place, or person is formally declared sacred or dedicated to a divine purpose.

  • The church held a special service for the consecration of the new altar.
  • The consecration of the bishop will take place next month.
benediction

Commonly used for blessings, particularly at the end of a religious service or other formal events to wish people well.

  • The priest gave a benediction after the mass.
  • The family received a benediction before their journey.
ordination

Specifically refers to the act of conferring holy orders upon someone, usually a clergy member, in various religious traditions.

  • His ordination as a priest was a significant milestone in his life.
  • The ordination ceremony was attended by many members of the congregation.
hallowing

Generally employed in a more poetic or archaic sense, referring to the act of making something holy or revered.

  • The hallowing of the ground made it a sacred place.
  • The ancient rituals involved the hallowing of the temple.

Examples of usage

  • The consecration of the marriage vows was a deeply emotional moment for the couple.
  • The consecration of the historical site was marked with a commemorative plaque.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

  • The word comes from the Latin 'consecratio', which means 'to devote or dedicate.'
  • In ancient Rome, 'consecration' was linked to rituals performed to honor the gods.
  • Throughout history, various cultures have performed consecration rituals for places, objects, and people.

Religious Significance

  • In Christianity, consecration is seen in the Eucharist, where bread and wine are blessed.
  • Jewish rituals often include consecration ceremonies for synagogues or religious items.
  • In Hinduism, special rites called 'puja' can consecrate temples and idols.

Cultural Practices

  • Indigenous cultures often perform consecration to honor the land and their ancestors.
  • Certain rites of passage, like weddings and baptisms, include acts of consecration to bless couples or new lives.
  • Artworks are sometimes consecrated as part of a gallery opening, elevating them to a sacred status.

Psychological Aspects

  • The act of consecrating can enhance the emotional significance of a place or object, making people feel more connected.
  • Research shows that when individuals engage in consecration, they often experience a greater sense of purpose.
  • Consecration rituals can create community bonds, as they often involve collective participation.

Literature and Arts

  • Literary works often explore themes of consecration, examining the anxiety of dedicating oneself to a higher cause.
  • Artists may create works that invoke the idea of consecration to critique or honor various societal issues.
  • Consecration appears as a theme in many classical texts, emphasizing moral choices and personal dedication.

Origin of 'consecration'

The word 'consecration' originated from the Latin word 'consecrare', which means 'to make sacred'. It has been used in religious contexts for centuries, referring to the act of dedicating something to a divine purpose. The concept of consecration can be found in various religious traditions and rituals around the world, symbolizing the sanctity and reverence associated with sacred objects, places, or ceremonies.


See also: consecrate, consecrated.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #14,426, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.