Discipleship: meaning, definitions and examples

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discipleship

 

[ dɪˈsaɪ.plɪʃ.ɪp ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

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

Translations of the word "discipleship" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discípulo

🇮🇳 शिष्यत्व

🇩🇪 Jüngerschaft

🇮🇩 pengikut

🇺🇦 учнівство

🇵🇱 uczniostwo

🇯🇵 弟子

🇫🇷 discipulat

🇪🇸 discípulo

🇹🇷 öğrencilik

🇰🇷 제자도

🇸🇦 تلمذة

🇨🇿 učednictví

🇸🇰 učenstvo

🇨🇳 门徒

🇸🇮 učenstvo

🇮🇸 lærisveina

🇰🇿 шәкірттік

🇬🇪 მოსწავლეობა

🇦🇿 şagirdlik

🇲🇽 discípulo

Etymology

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.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #23,845, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.