Pilgrimage Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pilgrimage
[ˈpɪlɡrɪmɪdʒ ]
Definition
religious journey
A pilgrimage is a journey, often to a sacred place, undertaken for religious or spiritual reasons. It is an act of devotion that dates back thousands of years and is common in many religions including Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, and Buddhism. Pilgrims often seek spiritual growth, fulfillment, or healing through their travels. The pilgrimage can be an individual or group experience and may involve various rituals and practices.
Synonyms
expedition, journey, quest, voyage.
Examples of usage
- He went on a pilgrimage to Mecca.
- The Camino de Santiago is a popular pilgrimage route.
- Many Christians undertake a pilgrimage to Jerusalem.
- Her pilgrimage to the sacred shrine was life-changing.
Translations
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Interesting Facts
Cultural Significance
- Many religions feature pilgrimages, such as the Hajj in Islam, where millions travel to Mecca every year.
- In Christianity, the Camino de Santiago in Spain becomes a route for spiritual rejuvenation, attracting pilgrims worldwide.
Historical Context
- Pilgrimages have been practiced since ancient times, with evidence in paths leading to sacred spaces like Stonehenge.
- During the Middle Ages, they served as a form of penance and spiritual cleansing for those seeking forgiveness.
Literature and Art
- Dante's 'Divine Comedy' symbolizes life as a pilgrimage through sin, suffering, and salvation, showing its broad emotional context.
- Many works of art depict pilgrims, like Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales', showcasing various human experiences and interactions along the journey.
Psychological Impacts
- Studies suggest that making a pilgrimage can lead to increased personal satisfaction and well-being through reflection.
- The act of traveling to a meaningful place can provide clarity and a sense of purpose in life.
Origin of 'pilgrimage'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from Old French 'pelerin', which means 'a person who goes to a holy place'.
- It has roots in the Latin 'peregrinus', meaning 'foreigner' or 'traveler', reflecting the idea of someone traveling from afar.
The word 'pilgrimage' has its roots in Middle English 'pilgrymage' and Old French 'pelerinage', which ultimately come from the Latin word 'peregrinus', meaning 'foreigner' or 'traveler'. The concept originally referred to the journey taken by a person to a holy place in search of divine guidance and spiritual enrichment. Historically, thousands of people have embarked on such journeys to visit significant religious sites across the world, embodying faith and devotion, while fostering a sense of community among those who share the same beliefs. As cultural practices evolved, the term pilgrimage expanded beyond strictly religious contexts to encompass any significant journey that promises personal growth or transformation.