Etymology
The word "supererogation" is derived from the Latin phrase "super erogare," which literally means "to expend beyond" or "to pay beyond what is necessary."
Meaning
Supererogation refers to actions or deeds that go beyond what is morally required or expected. It involves doing more than what one is obliged to do or what is strictly necessary. Supererogatory actions are considered morally praiseworthy and virtuous, but they are not essential for salvation or moral perfection.
Origin
The concept of supererogation originated in Christian theology, specifically in the teachings of the early Church Fathers. They argued that while certain actions, known as commandments or precepts, were obligatory for all Christians, there were also other actions, known as counsels or advices, that were not strictly necessary but were recommended as a way of pursuing greater perfection.
Supererogatory actions were often associated with asceticism, poverty, and celibacy, which were considered to be especially virtuous but not essential for all Christians to practice. The concept of supererogation was also used to justify the practices of indulgences and penance, which allowed individuals to gain forgiveness for sins by performing additional meritorious acts.
Over time, the concept of supererogation was adopted by philosophers and legal scholars, who applied it to secular contexts. In philosophy, supererogation refers to actions that are morally praiseworthy but not required by any legal or moral obligation. In law, supererogatory actions may be considered as going beyond the scope of what is required by law and may be recognized as meritorious or beneficial.
Etymology Late Latin supererogat from Latin super above beyond erogātus past
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Etymology Latin super above beyond Latin erogare to spend pay out tory a
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