Saintly Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

Religious Significance

• Many religions recognize saints as models of virtue, representing moral ideals that followers strive to emulate.
• In Christianity, saints are often depicted in art with halos, symbolizing their holiness and connection to the divine.
• The canonization process in the Catholic Church officially recognizes a person as a saint after verifying their miracles and virtuous life.

Cultural Influences

• In literature, characters described as saintly often serve as moral compasses, guiding other characters toward righteousness.
• The concept of saintliness can be found in various cultures, where certain individuals are revered for their selflessness and ethical conduct.
• Saintly figures are celebrated in festivals and public holidays, highlighting their influence in community values and ethics.

Psychological Aspects

• Research suggests that individuals who exhibit saintly traits, such as altruism and empathy, often experience higher levels of life satisfaction.
• The act of helping others promotes a sense of purpose and can lead to emotional well-being, supporting the idea of living a saintly life.
• Saintly behavior is also linked to positive social relationships, as people are generally drawn to kind and helpful individuals.

Artistic Representation

• Saintly figures are frequently portrayed in paintings and sculptures, often surrounded by symbols of their virtues like light or flowers.
• Famous artists have created masterpieces depicting saintly events, influencing how society views and honors these virtuous characters.
• In modern times, films and books often depict saints in a way that makes their stories relatable, inspiring audiences through their struggles and triumphs.

Literature

• Classic literature often explores themes of saintliness, contrasting characters who embody these ideals against those who do not.
• Famous authors have used saintly characters to highlight moral dilemmas, demonstrating the complexities of human nature and morality.
• In poetry, saintly traits are often celebrated as ideals to aspire to, showing how language can elevate the concept of goodness.

The word 'saintly' originates from the Middle English word 'seintli', which comes from the Old French word 'saint', meaning 'holy person'. The concept of sainthood has been present in various religions and cultures throughout history, with saints often revered for their exceptional virtues and relationship with the divine.

See also: saint, saintliness.

With rank #19,064, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

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• 19061 telex
• 19062 acumen
• 19063 tiring
• 19064 saintly
• 19065 disconcerting
• 19066 fundamentalist
• 19067 immeasurable
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