Reverence: meaning, definitions and examples
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reverence
[ˈrɛv(ə)rəns ]
Definitions
in religion
Deep respect for someone or something, often of a divine nature. It involves a feeling of awe, admiration, and honor towards a deity, saint, or sacred object.
Synonyms
adoration, respect, veneration, worship.
Examples of usage
- The monks showed reverence towards the ancient relics.
- She bowed her head in reverence before the altar.
- His reverence for the natural world was evident in his artwork.
in general
A gesture or act showing deep respect, such as a bow or a moment of silence. It can also refer to the state of being respectful or polite towards others.
Synonyms
admiration, deference, honor, respect.
Examples of usage
- The audience stood in reverence as the national anthem played.
- She greeted her elders with reverence and humility.
- The students showed reverence by listening attentively to the guest speaker.
formal
To show deep respect or admiration for someone or something, often through actions or words.
Synonyms
appreciate, honor, respect, venerate.
Examples of usage
- He reverenced his ancestors by following their traditions.
- She reverenced the old traditions by preserving them in her community.
- The artist reverenced nature by capturing its beauty in his paintings.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The word comes from the Latin 'reverentia', meaning respect or awe.
- It was introduced into English in the 14th century and has since evolved to signify deep respect.
- The root word 'revere' means to regard with great respect – connecting the two concepts.
Philosophy
- Many philosophers argue that reverence is essential for moral development, promoting a sense of duty towards others.
- In ethical discussions, reverence often finds its place in debates about human dignity and respect for life.
- Reverence can also serve as a reminder of humility, encouraging individuals to recognize their place in the universe.
Religion and Spirituality
- In many religious traditions, reverence is expressed in rituals, prayers, and the way followers treat sacred texts.
- For example, Buddhist practices often emphasize a deep reverence for life and the interconnectedness of all beings.
- In Christianity, reverence towards God is shown through worship and the acknowledgment of divine presence.
Literature
- Writers like Emily Dickinson have explored themes of reverence in their poetry, often relating it to nature or spirituality.
- In Shakespeare's works, characters often express reverence towards powerful figures or ideals, highlighting the play's moral dimensions.
- Reverence can also symbolize the relationship between humanity and the divine in many literary narratives.
Psychology
- Studies suggest that feeling reverence can lead to increased generosity and pro-social behavior among individuals.
- Experiencing moments of awe, which often invoke reverence, has been linked to improved mental well-being and life satisfaction.
- Psychologists argue that reverence can foster a sense of community and belonging within social groups.
Translations
Translations of the word "reverence" in other languages:
🇵🇹 reverência
🇮🇳 श्रद्धा
🇩🇪 Ehrfurcht
🇮🇩 penghormatan
🇺🇦 повага
🇵🇱 cześć
🇯🇵 尊敬 (そんけい)
🇫🇷 révérence
🇪🇸 reverencia
🇹🇷 saygı
🇰🇷 존경 (존경)
🇸🇦 تبجيل
🇨🇿 úcta
🇸🇰 úcta
🇨🇳 敬畏 (jìngwèi)
🇸🇮 spoštovanje
🇮🇸 virðing
🇰🇿 құрмет
🇬🇪 პატივისცემა
🇦🇿 hörmət
🇲🇽 reverencia