Holy Year (noun)
Definition: A "holy year" is a special period in the Roman Catholic Church that happens every 25 years. During this time, people believe that they can receive forgiveness for their sins and grow closer to God. It is a time for reflection, repentance, and spiritual renewal.
Usage Instructions: You can use the term "holy year" when talking about religious practices, especially in the context of the Catholic faith. It is often capitalized when referring to specific holy years (like "Holy Year 2000").
Example: "The Holy Year of 2000 was celebrated with many pilgrimages and special church services."
Advanced Usage: In discussions about religion or spirituality, you might hear "holy year" used in phrases like "the significance of the holy year" or "the pilgrimage during a holy year."
Word Variants: - Holy (adjective): Sacred or deserving of respect. - Year (noun): A period of 365 days (or 366 in a leap year).
Different Meanings: - While "holy" generally refers to something sacred or divine, "year" is simply a measure of time. Together, they specifically denote this unique period in the Catholic tradition.
Synonyms: - Jubilee (another term for a holy year, especially when it marks a special anniversary in the Church). - Sacred time (a broader term referring to any time considered holy).
Idioms and Phrasal Verbs: - There are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "holy year," but you might use phrases like "to seek forgiveness" or "to make a pilgrimage" in relation to the practices during such a time.
Conclusion: A "holy year" is an important concept in the Catholic Church, symbolizing a time for spiritual renewal and forgiveness.