Ordainment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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ordainment

[ษ”หrหˆdeษชn.mษ™nt ]

Definition

Context #1 | Noun

religious ceremony

Ordainment is the act of officially appointing someone to a religious office or ministry. It often involves a formal ceremony in which the individual receives the authority to perform sacred duties, such as leading worship or administering sacraments. The process of ordainment is pivotal in many religious traditions, as it signifies the transition of an individual into a role of spiritual leadership. It may include the laying on of hands by other ordained members, prayers, and blessings, symbolizing the empowerment and commissioning of the ordained individual.

Synonyms

commissioning, investiture, ordination.

Examples of usage

  • His ordainment as a minister took place in a beautiful church ceremony.
  • The ordainment of the new priest was attended by the entire congregation.
  • After years of study and preparation, she finally reached the point of her ordainment.
  • Ordainment is essential in the hierarchy of the church.

Translations

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Origin of 'ordainment'

The term 'ordainment' comes from the Middle English word 'ordeyn', which means to set in order or to appoint. The root of the word can be traced back to the Latin 'ordinare', meaning to arrange or to establish. This Latin term itself derives from 'ordo', which translates to order, indicating a systematic arrangement or classification. Throughout history, ordainment has been a crucial aspect of various religious practices, encapsulating the formal recognition and installation of individuals into pastoral roles. The significance of ordainment can be seen in numerous traditions, such as Christianity, where it is believed to confer spiritual authority and responsibilities to those who take on this vocation. As such, ordainment reflects both a personal commitment and a communal acknowledgment of one's calling to serve in a religious capacity.


Word Frequency Rank

At position #42,398, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.