Purgatory: meaning, definitions and examples
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purgatory
[ ˈpɜːrɡəˌtɔːri ]
religious concept
Purgatory is traditionally regarded in various religious beliefs as a transitional state after death in which souls undergo purification before entering heaven. It is often depicted as a temporary place or state where individuals endure suffering or atonement for their earthly sins. The concept emphasizes that while souls are not condemned to eternal hellfire, they must still fulfill the necessary penance. The imagery of purgatory includes fire and cleansing, symbolizing the process of repentance and purification.
Synonyms
afterlife, penance, self-purification
Examples of usage
- Many people believe in purgatory as a means of purification.
- She prayed for her loved ones who might be in purgatory.
- The concept of purgatory is important in Catholic theology.
Translations
Translations of the word "purgatory" in other languages:
🇵🇹 purgatório
🇮🇳 पुर्तगाल
🇩🇪 Fegefeuer
🇮🇩 purgatori
🇺🇦 чистилище
🇵🇱 czyściec
🇯🇵 煉獄 (れんごく)
🇫🇷 purgatoire
🇪🇸 purgatorio
🇹🇷 arındırma yeri
🇰🇷 연옥
🇸🇦 مطهر
🇨🇿 čistěc
🇸🇰 čistilište
🇨🇳 炼狱
🇸🇮 čistilišče
🇮🇸 purgatórí
🇰🇿 тазарту орны
🇬🇪 სუფთა ადგილი
🇦🇿 purgatoriya
🇲🇽 purgatorio
Word origin
The term 'purgatory' originates from the Latin word 'purgatorium', which means 'a place of cleansing'. This term is derived from 'purgare', meaning 'to cleanse' or 'to purify'. The concept of purgatory developed during the early centuries of Christianity, with formal definitions becoming prominent in the Middle Ages as theologians sought to explain the fate of souls between death and resurrection. The beliefs surrounding purgatory were heavily influenced by medieval scholasticism and were codified in various Church councils. Over time, purgatory has been depicted in art and literature, notably in Dante Alighieri's 'Divine Comedy', which presents a vivid imaginative account of the soul's journey through purgatory. Today, while the existence and nature of purgatory are subjects of debate among different branches of Christianity, it remains a significant part of Catholic doctrine.