Synod: meaning, definitions and examples
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synod
[ ˈsɪnəd ]
religious assembly
A synod is a council or assembly of church officials or clergy that meets to discuss and decide on matters of doctrine, administration, or other church-related issues. It can also refer to a specific governing body in certain Christian denominations that oversees local congregations.
Synonyms
assembly, conference, convention, council
Examples of usage
- The synod convened to discuss reforms.
- Many bishops attended the annual synod.
- The synod's decisions impact the church's policies.
- She was elected as a delegate to the synod.
Translations
Translations of the word "synod" in other languages:
🇵🇹 sínodo
🇮🇳 सिनॉड
🇩🇪 Synode
🇮🇩 sinode
🇺🇦 синод
🇵🇱 synod
🇯🇵 シノド
🇫🇷 synode
🇪🇸 sínodo
🇹🇷 senato
🇰🇷 시노드
🇸🇦 سينود
🇨🇿 synoda
🇸🇰 synoda
🇨🇳 主教会议
🇸🇮 sinoda
🇮🇸 sýnód
🇰🇿 синод
🇬🇪 სინოდი
🇦🇿 sinod
🇲🇽 sínodo
Etymology
The term 'synod' originates from the Greek word 'synodos', which means 'a meeting' or 'a way together'. It is composed of 'syn-', meaning 'together', and 'hodos', meaning 'way' or 'path'. Historically, synods were held by early Christian communities to address theological disputes and to establish church governance. The concept evolved throughout the centuries, particularly during the early church councils, such as the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which sought to unify Christian doctrine. Different denominations have since developed their own interpretations and structures of synods, shaping their approach to governance and decision-making. The term has been widely adopted in various contexts beyond Christianity, including general meetings and conferences focused on deliberation and guidance.