Oblation Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐
oblation
[ษหbleษชส(ษ)n ]
Definitions
religious offering
An oblation is a religious offering or sacrifice, typically made to a deity as an act of worship. It can take the form of food, money, or other items given as a gift to honor a higher power.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| oblation |
Used in formal or religious contexts to describe something offered to a deity, often in a ritualistic manner.
|
| offering |
Frequently used in both religious and non-religious settings to describe something presented, typically as an act of devotion or gratitude, or sometimes to describe items for sale.
|
| sacrifice |
Used to describe the act of giving up something valuable, often for the sake of others or for a greater good, and frequently has a more serious or solemn connotation.
|
| gift |
Used in everyday language to describe something given voluntarily without expecting anything in return, often to express kindness or affection.
|
Examples of usage
- The priest presented the oblation of bread and wine on the altar.
- The oblation of fruits and flowers symbolized the devotee's gratitude to the gods.
donation
In a more general sense, an oblation can also refer to a charitable donation or gift given for a specific purpose, such as supporting a cause or helping those in need.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The wealthy philanthropist made a generous oblation to the local charity organization.
- Her oblation of books to the library enriched its collection.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Religious Significance
- In many cultures, oblation has been a critical practice during ritual ceremonies, representing love, repentance, or petition.
- The concept of sacrifice in various religions often includes the notion of oblation, emphasizing the act of giving something valuable.
- Oblation is not limited to physical items but can also extend to acts of service or dedication.
Cultural Practices
- In some traditions, food items such as fruits, grains, or animals have been offered to deities as part of oblation rituals.
- Festivals in various cultures often include oblations, where people bring offerings to temples or shrines.
- The practice of oblation can symbolize the community's collective gratitude or requests for favor from a higher power.
Literature
- Oblation is often depicted in poetry and prose as a metaphor for sacrifice or devotion.
- Literary works, especially in religious contexts, frequently reference the act of offering to explore themes of faith and trust.
- Historical texts sometimes highlight the emotional resonance of oblation, portraying it as an essential human expression of connection to the divine.
Psychology
- The act of giving, including oblation, can enhance feelings of connectedness and community among individuals.
- Psychological studies suggest that acts of kindness or giving can lead to increased happiness and fulfillment.
- Oblation, in its emotional context, can also be a way to cope with grief or loss, channeling feelings into something meaningful.
Origin of 'oblation'
Main points about word origin
- Originates from the Latin word 'oblatio', meaning 'to present' or 'to offer'.
- In early Christianity, the term was used to describe gifts brought to the altar during Mass.
- The word has been part of religious vocabulary since the 14th century, indicating a long-standing tradition of offering in worship.
The word 'oblation' has its roots in Latin, coming from the verb 'oblatus', which means 'offered'. The term has been used in religious contexts for centuries, reflecting the act of offering something as a token of devotion. Over time, the meaning of 'oblation' has expanded to include charitable donations and gifts given for benevolent purposes.