sect etymology

Etymology

The word "sect" is derived from the Latin word "secta," meaning "a cutting" or "a following."

Meaning

A sect is a group of people who hold beliefs or practices that differ from those of the larger or established religious organization to which they belong. Members of a sect often emphasize a particular aspect or interpretation of the original religion, and their beliefs and practices may be considered unorthodox or extreme by the mainstream.

Origin

The term "sect" has been used since the Roman Empire to refer to religious groups that deviated from the established norms. However, the concept of sects has existed in various forms throughout human history.

The emergence of sects is often associated with:

  • Periods of social or religious upheaval
  • Dissatisfaction with established religious institutions
  • Charismatic leaders who offer alternative interpretations of religious doctrines

Additional Notes

  • Sects can range in size and influence, from small groups of individuals to large organizations with millions of members.
  • Not all sects are considered dangerous or harmful. Some may be peaceful and respected within their communities.
  • However, some sects can become involved in extreme or violent behavior, particularly when they feel threatened or persecuted.

sect relate terms

  • heresy

    Etymology The word heresy is derived from the Old French hérésie which in turn co

  • sect

    Etymology The word sect is derived from the Latin word secta meaning a cutting or

  • sectarian

    Etymology Origin Latin sectare to follow Derivation sec stem of sequi to foll

  • sect

    Etymology The word sect is derived from the Latin word secta meaning a cutting or

  • sectary

    Etymology Middle English secretarie from Old French secretarie from Church Latin sec

  • faction

    Etymology The word faction is derived from the Latin word factio which means a do

  • Shia

    Etymology The word Shia is derived from the Arabic word shi a which means follower

  • Amish

    Etymology The term Amish is derived from a mispronunciation of the surname Ammann w

  • Manichaeism

    Etymology From the Greek Manichaios named after its founder Mani Meaning A du

  • Sabian

    Etymology The name Sabian is derived from the Aramaic word ṣāʾbéʾ meaning ba

  • restorationist

    Etymology restorationist lt restoration ist Meaning A person who supports or ad

  • felt

    Etymology Middle English felte Old English felt Proto Germanic filtiz Meaning A

  • left

    Etymology The word left comes from the Old English word lyft meaning weak or wo

  • convent

    Etymology The word convent comes from the Latin word conventus which means an asse