Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Shriven Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ™
Add to dictionary

shriven

[หˆสƒrษชvษ™n ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

religious context

Shriven refers to the act of confessing one's sins to a priest and receiving absolution. This term is particularly used in Christian contexts, where the ritual of confession is an important aspect of religious practice.

Synonyms

absolved, forgiven.

Examples of usage

  • He was shriven before the big decision.
  • She felt peace after being shriven.
  • The faithful were encouraged to be shriven during Lent.
  • Being shriven is a vital part of her spiritual journey.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Religious Significance

  • In Christianity, confessing sins before God is considered a way to restore one's relationship with the divine.
  • The act is often accompanied by rituals, which can vary among different denominations but commonly involves sincerity and repentance.
  • Shriven individuals often partake in communion and other sacraments after receiving forgiveness, marking a fresh start.

Cultural References

  • The term is frequently found in classic literature, reflecting themes of guilt, redemption, and moral reconciliation.
  • In Geoffrey Chaucer's 'The Canterbury Tales,' characters often journey to seek forgiveness and make moral choices.
  • Movies and plays sometimes portray characters seeking confession as a path to redemption, emphasizing the emotional weight of being 'shriven.'

Psychological Perspective

  • Seeking forgiveness can alleviate feelings of guilt and shame, promoting psychological well-being.
  • Forgiveness is linked to improved mental health outcomes, with many studies showing lower anxiety levels among those who engage in the practice.
  • The process can foster personal growth by encouraging individuals to reflect on their actions and strive for better behavior.

Literature

  • The concept appears in many literary works, symbolizing the struggle between good and evil within characters.
  • Notable authors like John Milton and Shakespeare addressed the theme of confession and moral accountability in their writings.
  • In modern literature, characters undergoing a journey of 'shriving' often signify deeper social or personal conflicts.

Origin of 'shriven'

Main points about word origin

  • The term comes from the Old English word 'scrifan,' meaning 'to prescribe' or 'to impose an obligation.'
  • Originally, it referred to the act of a priest assigning penance after someone confessed their sins.
  • In medieval times, it was commonly performed during Lent, a period of reflection and penitence.

The word 'shriven' originates from the Old English 'scrฤซfan', meaning to prescribe or appoint, which evolved to imply the act of confessional absolution. Its use in religious contexts is tied to the practice of confessing sins and receiving forgiveness, which has been a fundamental aspect of Christianity for centuries. The word is closely related to the concept of penance, a significant theme in Christian theology. As such, it has historical ties to the church's authority in mediating the relationship between individuals and the divine. The term has seen usage in various forms of literature and religious texts, often reflecting moral and ethical considerations central to human experience.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,537, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.