animal-worship
Definition
Noun: * Zoolatry; the worship of animals: The religious practice or ritual of venerating, adoring, or offering devotion to animals, often because they are considered sacred, embodiments of deities, or possess spiritual power.
Usage
- The term is used in anthropology, religious studies, and history to describe specific cultural and religious practices.
- It refers to a form of worship where animals are the primary objects of religious reverence.
- It is a compound noun, typically used in an academic or descriptive context.
Examples
- Noun:
- Ancient Egyptian religion is famous for its animal-worship, such as the veneration of cats, bulls, and ibises.
- The anthropologist wrote a thesis on the practice of animal-worship in various indigenous tribes.
- Some scholars argue that animal-worship stems from a belief in animals as totems or ancestors.
Advanced Usage
- The concept can be discussed in contrast to anthropomorphism (attributing human characteristics to animals) or in the context of animism (the belief that objects, places, and creatures possess a distinct spiritual essence).
- It is often analyzed as part of a broader system of beliefs rather than an isolated practice.
Variants and Related Words
- Zoolatry (n): A direct synonym, often used in more formal academic writing.
- Theriolatry (n): A less common synonym with the same meaning.
- Animal cult (n): A related term describing organized religious veneration focused on a specific animal or species.
Synonyms
- Zoolatry
- Theriolatry
Notes
- "Animal-worship" is a hyphenated compound noun. Its meaning is specific and should not be confused with simply loving or caring for animals, which is not a form of religious worship.
- There are no direct phrasal verbs or idioms derived from this specific compound term.
Noun
-
the worship of animals
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