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Ordained Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ordained

[ɔːrˈdeɪnd ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

religious authority

To be ordained is to be formally appointed or consecrated to a religious office or function. This process typically involves a ceremonial rite, where an individual is recognized as possessing the authority to perform specific spiritual duties, such as leading worship or administering sacraments. Often associated with ministers, priests, or bishops, the act of ordination marks the individual's commitment to a religious vocation. The term is primarily used within Christian denominations, but similar practices exist in other faiths.

Synonyms

appointed, commissioned, consecrated.

Examples of usage

  • He was ordained as a priest last spring.
  • The bishop ordained several new ministers during the ceremony.
  • After years of study, she was finally ordained.
  • He felt called to be ordained and serve his community.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Religious Significance

  • In many religions, ordination is a sacred rite that imparts spiritual authority and responsibilities.
  • It often involves rituals such as laying on hands, symbolic gestures that represent the passing of authority.
  • Various faiths have different processes for ordaining leaders, including priests, ministers, and rabbis.

Cultural Impact

  • Ordained individuals often play crucial roles in community events, providing guidance during life milestones like weddings and funerals.
  • Films and literature often portray ordained characters as moral compasses in their stories, reflecting their societal importance.
  • In some cultures, being ordained can elevate someone's status within the community, often seen as a calling or a lifelong commitment.

Legal and Social Perspectives

  • In many jurisdictions, ordained individuals have legal recognition, enabling them to officiate ceremonies like marriages.
  • Laws vary widely on what it means to be ordained, with some requiring formal education while others have more lenient rules.
  • Social perceptions of ordination can differ greatly; some view it as a powerful vocation, while others may question the authority of modern-day leaders.

Historical Context

  • Historically, the church played a significant role in governance, and ordination was often tied to political power.
  • During the Reformation, the idea of ordination became more contested as many sought to separate church leadership from state control.
  • The practice of ordaining women has evolved significantly, with various movements advocating for equality in religious leadership roles.

Origin of 'ordained'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'ordinare,' meaning 'to arrange or set in order.'
  • It has roots in the idea of setting something in place, similar to how a king is chosen or a plan is followed.
  • The term has been used since the Middle Ages to refer to religious leaders being formally appointed.

The word 'ordained' originates from the Latin verb 'ordinare', meaning 'to arrange, order, or establish,' which can be broken down into 'ordo' meaning 'order.' The term made its way into Old French as 'ordiner' and entered Middle English as 'ordenen.' Over centuries, the use of the term evolved within various religious contexts, particularly within Christianity, signifying the formal establishment of someone into the clergy with the authority to perform religious rites and sacraments. The concept of ordination has been a fundamental aspect of church organization since early Christianity, symbolizing a divine or scriptural endorsement of the individual's role within religious communities.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #7,728 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.