theological etymology

Etymology

• Greek: theos (god) + logos (word, discourse)

Meaning

• The study of the etymology, or origin and history, of theological terms.

Origin

The term "theological etymology" emerged in the 17th century, particularly in the works of the German Lutheran theologian Johann Gerhard (1583-1637). Gerhard argued that the etymology of theological terms could provide important insights into the meaning and development of doctrines.

Theological etymology became popular in the 18th and 19th centuries, as scholars sought to understand the historical roots and meanings of key theological concepts. It was particularly influential in the fields of biblical studies, patrology, and historical theology.

Importance

Theological etymology is important for understanding the history, meaning, and development of Christian doctrine. By tracing the origins and usage of key terms, theologians can gain insights into the beliefs and practices of early Christians. Additionally, it can help dispel etymological fallacies and clarify the true meanings of theological concepts.

Examples

• The term "Trinity" is derived from the Latin trinitas, which in turn comes from the Greek trias (three). This etymology helps explain the concept of the Trinity as three distinct persons in one divine nature.
• The term "salvation" is derived from the Latin salvatio, which means "deliverance." This etymology highlights the idea that salvation is a process of being rescued from sin and its consequences.
• The term "church" is derived from the Greek ekklesia, which originally meant "an assembly of citizens." This etymology reflects the idea of the church as a community of believers gathered together for worship and fellowship.

theological relate terms

• theology

  Etymology and Origin The word theology is derived from two Greek roots Theos Meanin

• perdition

  Etymology Late Latin perditio destruction ruin from the verb perdere to destroy

• humanitarian

  Etymology The term humanitarian originates from the Latin phrase humanitas meaning

• aspersion

  Etymology Latin aspersio from aspergere meaning to sprinkle or to scatter Pr

• justification

  Etymology The word justification comes from the Latin word iustificare which means

• ubiquity

  Etymology Latin ubiquitas presence everywhere Late Latin ubiquitous present eve

• disbelief

  Etymology The word disbelief comes from the Old English prefix dis meaning not or

• scrabble

  Etymology English Scrabble Origin Late 1930s coined by Alfred Mosher Butts based on

• conciliate

  Etymology Latin conciliare to call together reconcile Con together calare to

• bolster

  Etymology The word bolster comes from the Old English word bolster which is derived

• obituary

  Etymology The word obituary comes from the Latin word obitus which means death M