Patriarchate: meaning, definitions and examples
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patriarchate
[ ˈpeɪtriərkeɪt ]
religious governance
A patriarchate refers to a form of ecclesiastical jurisdiction or governance led by a patriarch. In the context of Christianity, it is particularly significant within Orthodox and some Catholic traditions, where a patriarch serves as a senior bishop overseeing a specific territory or group of believers. The patriarchate indicates not only religious leadership but also cultural and historical influences within the communities they guide, often resulting in distinct practices and traditions among different patriarchates. This term is typically associated with ancient traditions, reflecting an enduring hierarchical structure within churches.
Synonyms
bishopric, church governance, ecclesiastical authority.
Examples of usage
- The Orthodox patriarchate of Constantinople has a rich history.
- The patriarchate plays a crucial role in religious matters.
- Each patriarchate has its own unique customs.
- In the Catholic Church, the patriarchate is an important institution.
Translations
Translations of the word "patriarchate" in other languages:
🇵🇹 patriarcado
🇮🇳 पितृसत्तात्मकता
🇩🇪 Patriarchat
🇮🇩 patriarkat
🇺🇦 патріархат
🇵🇱 patriarchat
🇯🇵 教父制
🇫🇷 patriarcat
🇪🇸 patriarcado
🇹🇷 patriarhlık
🇰🇷 가부장제
🇸🇦 البطريركية
🇨🇿 patriarchát
🇸🇰 patriarchát
🇨🇳 父权制
🇸🇮 patriarhat
🇮🇸 páfagild
🇰🇿 патриархат
🇬🇪 პატრიარქატი
🇦🇿 patriarxat
🇲🇽 patriarcado
Etymology
The term 'patriarchate' derives from the Greek word 'patriarchēs' which means 'father-ruler' or 'chief of a family'. This term has its roots in biblical traditions where patriarchs were considered heads of families or clans, especially within the context of the Old Testament. Over time, as Christianity developed, the title came to be associated with high-ranking bishops who led extensive church jurisdictions. The establishment of the early Christian Church saw the formalization of patriarchates in the Roman Empire, most notably with the Bishop of Rome being recognized as the Pope. The role and influence of patriarchates grew, leading to the establishment of several key patriarchates in cities such as Alexandria, Antioch, and Constantinople. These leadership roles have historically been linked to significant theological inputs and church councils, shaping major decisions within the faith and its practices.