Multifaith: meaning, definitions and examples
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multifaith
[ mʌltiˈfeɪθ ]
social context
Multifaith refers to the coexistence and recognition of multiple religious beliefs and practices within a society or organization. This term is often used in contexts where diverse faiths interact and are respected, promoting understanding and harmony among different religious groups.
Synonyms
ecumenical, interfaith, multicultural.
Examples of usage
- The multifaith initiative encourages dialogue between different religions.
- They celebrated a multifaith festival to honor various traditions.
- The school promotes a multifaith environment for its students.
- A multifaith service was held to commemorate the victims.
Etymology
The term 'multifaith' emerged in the late 20th century as societies became increasingly diverse and interconnected. It combines the prefix 'multi-', meaning many or multiple, with 'faith', derived from Old French 'feid', which in turn comes from Latin 'fides', meaning trust or belief. As global migration, communication, and cultural exchange intensified, discussions around religious tolerance and pluralism became more prevalent, leading to the adoption of the term in various sectors, including education, community development, and interfaith dialogue. It reflects a growing recognition of the value in understanding and respecting different faiths in order to promote peace and coexistence in pluralistic societies.