Devotional Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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devotional
[dɪˈvəʊʃ(ə)n(ə)l ]
Definitions
spiritual practices
Relating to or used in religious worship; expressing religious reverence or zeal.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| devotional |
Often used to describe rituals, songs, or literature that express devotion to a deity or religious practice. It focuses on the act of devotion itself.
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| religious |
Refers to anything related to or concerned with religion. It can describe people, practices, beliefs, or objects.
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| spiritual |
Relates to the human spirit or soul, often in a broader sense that is not necessarily tied to organized religion. It encompasses a sense of connection beyond material or physical things.
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| pious |
Describes someone who is very religious and shows it through their actions. It may sometimes carry an implication of being overly or hypocritically religious.
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Examples of usage
- She starts her day with devotional prayers.
- The devotional music filled the temple with a sense of peace and tranquility.
religious activities
A religious worship or prayer.
Synonyms
prayer service, religious observance, worship.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| devotional |
Used here to indicate any text, book, or audio intended for religious practice and meditation.
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| prayer service |
Usually refers to a formal or semi-formal group gathering primarily focused on prayer, which might include reading scripture and singing hymns.
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| worship |
Refers to the act of showing reverence and adoration for a deity, which can include activities such as prayer, singing, and communal gatherings.
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| religious observance |
Used to describe any act of religious practice or custom, including holidays, rituals, or days of worship. It can encompass a broad range of activities beyond just prayer or meditation.
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Examples of usage
- The group gathered for a devotional at the church.
- She attends the daily devotional at the monastery.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religious Significance
- In many religions, devotion is seen as a pathway to deeper understanding and connection with the divine.
- Pilgrimages and rituals often stem from acts of devotion, allowing followers to express their faith and commitment.
- Certain texts, like the 'Bhagavad Gita' and various Psalms, reflect themes of devotion, showcasing personal and communal worship.
Literature
- Devotional poetry flourished during the Renaissance, exploring profound themes of love, loss, and spirituality.
- Famous poets like John Donne and Anne Bradstreet used celebration of the divine to express personal and emotional themes.
- The concept has inspired a vast body of literature across cultures, emphasizing personal and communal faith.
Psychology
- Studies show that feelings of devotion can enhance emotional well-being, fostering a sense of belonging.
- Engaging in devotional practices has been linked to lower stress levels and increased happiness.
- Psychologists explore how devotion influences relationships, promoting trust and a deeper emotional bond.
Pop Culture
- Songs and films often depict the theme of devotion, exploring the power of love and commitment in relationships.
- In contemporary music, artists frequently reference concepts of devotion to convey deep emotional experiences.
- Television series may portray characters' struggles with their devotion to others, adding drama and relatability.
Origin of 'devotional'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'devotio', meaning 'a vow' or 'dedication'.
- It entered the English language in the 15th century, illustrating a historical connection to religious practices.
- Initially, it described acts of worship, which later expanded to include personal expressions of faith.
The word 'devotional' comes from the Latin word 'devotio' meaning 'dedication or consecration'. It has been used in English since the 15th century to describe things related to religious worship or practices. Devotional activities are common in many religious traditions as a way to express devotion, reverence, and faith.
See also: devote, devoted, devotedly, devotee, devotees, devotion.