ossuary etymology

Etymology and Origin:

The word "ossuary" is derived from the Latin word "ossuarium," which means "a place for bones." It is ultimately derived from the Latin word "os," meaning "bone."

Meaning:

An ossuary is a container used to store or display human bones. It can be a box, chest, or vault made of stone, wood, or metal. Ossuaries have been used in various cultures and religions throughout history for different purposes, including:

  • Remains of the deceased: Ossuaries can be used to store the bones of the dead after cremation or exhumation.
  • Commemoration: Ossuaries can be inscribed with names, dates, and other information to commemorate the deceased.
  • Religious rituals: Ossuaries can be used in religious ceremonies and rituals, such as the display of relics or the veneration of saints.
  • Storage of archaeological remains: Ossuaries can be used to store and transport the remains of individuals found during archaeological excavations.

Historical Use:

Ossuaries have been used in various cultures and time periods, including:

  • Ancient Rome: Romans used ossuaries called "columbaria" to store the cremated remains of their loved ones.
  • Early Christianity: Christian cemeteries often contained ossuaries to house the bones of the deceased.
  • Holy Land: In the Holy Land, ossuaries were used to store the remains of Jesus' followers and other early Christians.
  • Modern times: Ossuaries are still used in some cultures and religions for the storage or display of human bones, although their use has declined in recent years.

ossuary relate terms

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