Discipleship Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
📖
discipleship
[dɪˈsaɪ.plɪʃ.ɪp ]
Definition
spiritual guidance
Discipleship refers to the process of learning from and following a spiritual leader or teacher, typically in a religious context. It involves a commitment to grow in understanding, practice, and application of the teachings provided by the mentor. Discipleship can take many forms, including formal education, mentorship, and communal living. It emphasizes a deepening relationship with the teachings and a transformation of one's life in accordance with those principles.
Synonyms
apprenticeship, following, mentorship.
Examples of usage
- He devoted his life to discipleship under his spiritual mentor.
- Discipleship programs often include community service and study.
- They believe that discipleship is essential for spiritual growth.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religion
- In Christianity, discipleship is central to following Jesus, where followers learn and spread his teachings.
- Historically, the twelve apostles are often referred to as the primary disciples of Jesus, symbolizing the beginning of this practice.
- Different religions have their own forms of discipleship, such as Buddhism, where followers learn from a guru.
Education
- Modern educational systems also have discipleship-like practices, where students closely follow mentors to gain knowledge.
- Peer mentorship programs are a form of discipleship, encouraging experienced students to guide newcomers.
- Workshops and community classes can provide discipleship experiences in practical skills too.
Psychology
- Studies show that learning from a mentor can greatly improve confidence and skill retention in students.
- The bond between a disciple and teacher is often based on trust, which is essential for effective learning.
- Emotional support from mentors can enhance motivation and push disciples towards personal growth.
Pop Culture
- Movies often showcase the concept of a mentor-disciple relationship, like Yoda and Luke Skywalker in Star Wars.
- In the world of sports, athletes often speak of their coaches as mentors, relating their journey to discipleship.
- Various books depict characters as disciples learning valuable life lessons from their mentors.
Origin of 'discipleship'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'discipulus', meaning 'learner' or 'student'.
- In ancient languages, it often referred to someone who is dedicated to learning from a master.
- The term has roots in the Greek word 'mathetes', which means 'follower' or 'pupil'.
The word 'discipleship' originates from the term 'disciple,' which comes from the Latin 'discipulus,' meaning 'student' or 'learner.' This Latin word itself is derived from 'discere,' which means 'to learn.' In a religious context, discipleship is often associated with the followers of Jesus Christ, who were called 'disciples' in the New Testament of the Bible. Over the centuries, the use of the term expanded beyond Christianity to encompass similar relationships in various spiritual and philosophical traditions. Discipleship represents not just the act of learning, but also the commitment to embody the teachings and values of the mentor in one's daily life.