holiness

/'houlinis/

Thân thiện

A monk meditates in a place of holiness.

Definition

Noun: 1. The quality or state of being holy; sacredness; sanctity. This refers to the condition of being dedicated or set apart for religious or spiritual purposes, often associated with purity, divinity, and moral perfection. 2. (His/Your Holiness) A title of respect used when referring to or addressing a high religious leader, especially the Pope.

Usage

The word "holiness" is a formal and often religious term. It describes an abstract quality, not a physical object. It is commonly used in theological, spiritual, and formal contexts. - As a common noun, it describes the sacred character of a person, place, or object. - As a title (capitalized: "Holiness"), it is used as a form of address.

Examples

• As a common noun (quality):
  • Pilgrims travel to the site because of its perceived holiness.
  • The monk was revered for his personal holiness and devotion.
  • Many religions emphasize the holiness of life.
• As a title:
  • His Holiness will deliver a message to the faithful.
  • The letter was addressed to Your Holiness.

Advanced Usage

• In theological discourse: "Holiness" is often discussed as an attribute of God or a state to be achieved by believers through spiritual practice.
• In comparative religion: Scholars study concepts of across different faith traditions.

Variants and Related Words

• Holy (adj): Having a divine quality; sacred. (e.g., a holy book, a holy day).
• Sanctity (n): The state or quality of being holy, sacred, or saintly. Often used interchangeably with "holiness," though "sanctity" can strongly imply inviolability (e.g., the sanctity of marriage).
• Sacredness (n): The quality of being dedicated to a religious purpose and deserving veneration. Closely related to holiness.

Synonyms

• Sacredness
• Sanctity
• Godliness
• Saintliness
• Divinity

Antonyms

• Profaneness
• Unholiness
• Wickedness
• Sinfulness
• Secularity

Idioms and Fixed Phrases

• His/Your Holiness: The formal title for the Pope and some other high-ranking religious figures.
  • His Holiness Pope Francis visited the country.
  • "Thank you for your blessing, Your Holiness."

Học thuật

Noun

1. the quality of being holy

Từ đồng nghĩa

• sanctity
• sanctitude