Lares etymology

Etymology:

The word "lares" comes from the Latin word "lar," meaning "lord" or "protector."

Meaning:

Lares were household gods or spirits in Roman mythology. They were believed to watch over and protect the family and home.

Origin:

The origins of the lares are unclear, but they may have originated as the spirits of ancestors or the personification of domestic spaces. Over time, they evolved into a complex system of household deities with specific roles and functions.

Types of Lares:

  • Lares Familiares: These were the most important lares, protecting the entire household and family line.
  • Lares Compitales: These lares protected the crossroads and public areas.
  • Lares Urbani: These lares watched over Rome and its citizens.

Worship:

Lares were worshipped in a variety of ways, including:

  • Altars and shrines in homes and temples
  • Daily prayers and offerings
  • Festivals and sacrifices

Legacy:

The concept of lares has had a lasting influence on Western culture. It can be seen in:

  • The use of the term "laird" in Scotland, which derives from the Latin "lardus," meaning "lord" or " protector."
  • The tradition of household patron saints in Catholicism.
  • The concept of "domestic spirits" or "familiars" in folklore and modern paganism.

Lares relate terms

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  • Lares

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  • penetrate

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  • abstract

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  • patience

    Etymology The word patience originates from the Latin word patientia which means su

  • proud

    Etymology Old English prūd prūde Proto Germanic prūdiz Proto Indo European prew

  • hold

    Etymology Old English healdan Proto West Germanic haldan Proto Germanic haldaną P

  • spoil

    Etymology The word spoil comes from the Old French word spolier which means to rob

  • memoir

    Etymology French mémoire memory Latin memoria remembrance Meaning A memo

  • tutor

    Etymology The word tutor originates from the Latin word tutor which means guardian