Pope Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pope
[poʊp ]
Definition
religious leader
The Pope is the Bishop of Rome and the spiritual leader of the worldwide Catholic Church. He is considered the successor to Saint Peter, whom Catholics believe was appointed by Jesus as the head of his disciples. The Pope holds the highest ecclesiastical office in the Catholic hierarchy and is responsible for the pastoral care of Catholics globally. In addition to his religious duties, the Pope has significant influence in political and social issues, often advocating for peace, justice, and humanitarian causes.
Synonyms
bishop of Rome, holy father, pontiff, vicar of Christ.
Examples of usage
- The Pope delivered a powerful message about peace during the Mass.
- Many people gather to hear the Pope speak on important issues.
- The Pope visited several countries to promote interfaith dialogue.
- He is regarded as a moral authority on various global concerns.
Translations
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Origin of 'pope'
The word "pope" is derived from the Latin "papa", which means 'father'. The term was used as a title for bishops and later specifically for the Bishop of Rome, signifying the leadership role over the Christian community. Historically, the term began to be used in the 4th century, initially as a form of address for any bishop in early Christianity. Over time, it became distinctively associated with the Roman bishop, especially after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. The Pope's role as a spiritual leader developed through various councils and theological discussions, contributing to the establishment of the papacy as a central authority within the Catholic Church. The Pope's influence has evolved through medieval times to modernity, intersecting with political and social affairs across the globe.