Millenialism: meaning, definitions and examples

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millenialism

[ˌmɪlɪˈniːəˌlɪzəm ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

belief system

Millenialism refers to a belief in a future ideal society, especially one that will be brought about by a major transformation or event. It often involves the expectation of a golden age or utopia.

Synonyms

millenarianism, millennialism.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
millenialism	There appears to be a typo as 'millenialism' with a single 'n' is not a recognized term. The correct term is 'millennialism' with two 'n's, denoting beliefs or characteristics of the millennial generation.
millennialism	This word is predominantly used in two contexts. It can either refer to religious beliefs similar to millenarianism related to the concept of a thousand-year reign, or be used more commonly today to describe generational characteristics linked to Millennials, individuals born roughly between 1981 and 1996. In theology, millennialism predicts a future period of peace and stability. Studies show that millennialism is associated with a higher affinity for technology and social media use.
millenarianism	This term is used in a religious or eschatological context to refer to the belief in a coming transformation of society, often a thousand-year reign of peace and happiness, sometimes associated with the Second Coming of Christ or a similar prophetic event. Many religious movements throughout history have embraced millenarianism, predicting a significant change in the world's order. Millenarianism often involves detailed prophecies about the end times and the establishment of a utopian era.

Word

Description / Examples

millenialism

There appears to be a typo as 'millenialism' with a single 'n' is not a recognized term. The correct term is 'millennialism' with two 'n's, denoting beliefs or characteristics of the millennial generation.

millennialism

This word is predominantly used in two contexts. It can either refer to religious beliefs similar to millenarianism related to the concept of a thousand-year reign, or be used more commonly today to describe generational characteristics linked to Millennials, individuals born roughly between 1981 and 1996.

In theology, millennialism predicts a future period of peace and stability.
Studies show that millennialism is associated with a higher affinity for technology and social media use.

millenarianism

This term is used in a religious or eschatological context to refer to the belief in a coming transformation of society, often a thousand-year reign of peace and happiness, sometimes associated with the Second Coming of Christ or a similar prophetic event.

Many religious movements throughout history have embraced millenarianism, predicting a significant change in the world's order.
Millenarianism often involves detailed prophecies about the end times and the establishment of a utopian era.

Examples of usage

The followers of the cult held strong millenialist beliefs about the end of the world.
Many ancient civilizations had their own versions of millenialism, predicting a time of peace and prosperity.

Interesting Facts

Historical Origins

The term 'millenialism' comes from the Latin word 'millennium,' meaning a thousand years, particularly from a biblical context referring to Christ's reign.
Early Christian thinkers in the 2nd century, like Papias, spread ideas that Christ would return to Earth and establish a thousand-year kingdom of peace.
Throughout history, various groups, from Puritans in the 17th century to the 19th-century Millerites, have interpreted scriptures to predict a coming millennium.

Religious Context

In many religious traditions, millenialism signifies hope and renewal, envisioning a future where divine order prevails over chaos.
Different faiths express unique views of this future; for example, some see it as a time of spiritual enlightenment, while others focus on social justice.
The Apocalyptic writings in the New Testament, particularly the Book of Revelation, are key texts that discuss the millennial reign of Christ.

Pop Culture

The concept has influenced numerous films, books, and music, often representing a pivotal transition period before a utopian world is achieved.
Dystopian narratives, like 'The Road' or 'Children of Men,' reflect society's fears about failure in reaching that ideal future, contrasting with millenial ideals.
Many modern video games explore themes of societal collapse and rebirth, aligning with millenial beliefs about redemption and change.

Psychological Aspects

Psychologically, holding millenial beliefs can provide individuals a sense of hope and purpose, especially during challenging times.
These beliefs may heighten feelings of anxiety about impending change or apocalypse, as people grapple with uncertain futures.
Some studies suggest that communities sharing millenial ideals tend to exhibit strong social bonds and collective identity.

Sociopolitical Implications

Millenialism can inspire movements for social change, as it taps into a collective desire for improvement and justice.
Historically, it has fueled radical groups, believing that dramatic action is justified to bring about the prophesied new world.
In contemporary society, movements using millenial ideas cooperate with environmental causes, arguing for a 'new age' of sustainability.

Translations

Translations of the word "millenialism" in other languages:

🇵🇹 milenialismo

🇮🇳 मिलेनियलवाद

🇩🇪 Millennialismus

🇮🇩 milenialisme

🇺🇦 мілленіалізм

🇵🇱 milenializm

🇯🇵 ミレニアリズム

🇫🇷 millénialisme

🇪🇸 milenialismo

🇹🇷 milenyalizm

🇰🇷 밀레니얼리즘

🇸🇦 ألفيّة

🇨🇿 mileniarismus

🇸🇰 mileniarizmus

🇨🇳 千禧年主义

🇸🇮 milenializem

🇮🇸 þúsaldahyggja

🇰🇿 миллениализм

🇬🇪 მილენიალიზმი

🇦🇿 milenializm

🇲🇽 milenialismo