Deifying Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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deifying
[ˈdiː.ɪ.faɪ.ɪŋ ]
Definition
religious belief
Deifying refers to the act of treating someone or something as a deity or god. It often involves elevating a person to divine status or considering them worthy of worship. This term can also apply to the glorification of concepts, principles, or entities in a manner akin to divine reverence.
Synonyms
exalting, idolizing, venerating, worshiping.
Examples of usage
- In many cultures, ancient kings were deified after their deaths.
- The movement aimed at deifying the leader quickly gained popular support.
- People sometimes deify historical figures, overlooking their flaws.
- The novel deifies the protagonist, portraying him as a messianic figure.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Religion
- Various cultures have deified historical figures, including rulers and heroes, as a way to cement their influence and legacy.
- In ancient Egypt, pharaohs were often considered gods, reinforcing their authority over the people.
- Many religions have rituals that include deifying saints or holy figures, often emphasizing their miraculous deeds.
Literature
- In Shakespeare's works, characters often elevate others to divine status through admiration or love, showcasing the power of perspective.
- The practice of deifying characters adds layers to storytelling, allowing readers to explore themes of power and humanity.
- Deification in literature can critique society by showing the absurdity of pedestal norms.
Psychology
- People may deify public figures as a way to escape their own limitations, promoting unrealistic expectations.
- This behavior can lead to disappointment when these figures fail to meet the exalted image placed upon them.
- Social psychology studies suggest that idolizing someone can affect personal identity and self-esteem.
Pop Culture
- Many celebrities are deified in media, where their every action is scrutinized, creating a god-like image.
- Comic book heroes are often portrayed as modern-day deities, influencing cultural narratives around morality and strength.
- Social media platforms can amplify the deification process, allowing public figures to cultivate god-like personas.
Origin of 'deifying'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Latin 'deificare,' which means 'to make divine.'
- It combines 'deus' (god) with the suffix '-fy,' meaning 'to make.'
- The term has been used in religious contexts since at least the 15th century.
The word 'deifying' stems from the Latin root 'deificare,' which is a combination of 'deus' meaning 'god' and 'facere' meaning 'to make.' The concept of deification has been prevalent in various cultures throughout history, where significant figures were often elevated to divine status either posthumously or during their lifetimes. In ancient religions, rulers and heroes were frequently deified as a means of solidifying their power and legacy. This practice can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where emperors and pharaohs were venerated as gods. The term has evolved in modern usage, extending to encompass not just individuals, but also ideas and movements that receive uncritical admiration akin to worship.