Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • A historical figure in Christianity: "St. Basil" refers to a 4th-century bishop, theologian, and saint. He is recognized for his defense of orthodox Christian doctrine against heresy and for his influential writings on monasticism and charitable work.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • The writings of St. Basil are foundational to Eastern Christian theology.
  • Many churches celebrate the feast day of St. Basil on January 1st or 2nd.
  • St. Basil is known for his care for the poor and his establishment of a hospital complex.

Advanced Usage

• "The Liturgy of St. Basil": A longer, more elaborate form of the Eucharistic liturgy used in Eastern Orthodox and Eastern Catholic Churches on specific feast days.

  • The Liturgy of St. Basil is celebrated only ten times a year in the Byzantine rite.

• "St. Basil's Cathedral": The popular name for the Cathedral of the Intercession of the Most Holy Theotokos on the Moat in Moscow's Red Square. It is named in honor of St. Basil the Blessed, a different, later Russian saint, but the name often leads to association with St. Basil of Caesarea.

  • St. Basil's Cathedral is famous for its colorful, onion-shaped domes.

Variants and Related Words

• Basil of Caesarea (n): The full historical name, specifying his bishopric.

  • Basil of Caesarea is also called Basil the Great.

• Basil the Great (n): An honorific title commonly used, especially in Eastern Christianity.

  • The teachings of Basil the Great shaped early monastic rules.

Synonyms

• Basil of Caesarea: The historical identifier.
• Basil the Great: The honorific title.

Related Idioms and Phrases

• "A St. Basil's charity": This phrase, though not a common idiom, could be used allusively to describe extensive, organized charitable work, inspired by his legacy.
  • Their soup kitchen operates with a St. Basil's charity, serving hundreds daily.

Noun

1. (Roman Catholic Church) the bishop of Caesarea who defended the Roman Catholic Church against the heresies of the 4th century; a saint and Doctor of the Church (329-379)