latria

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Word: Latria

Part of Speech: Noun

Definition: Latria refers to the special kind of worship that is given only to God. It is considered the highest form of reverence and devotion in many religious contexts, particularly in Christianity.

Usage Instructions:

• Latria is often used in religious discussions or writings. It is not a common word in everyday conversation, but you might encounter it in theological texts or discussions about worship practices.

Example Sentence:

• In the Catholic Church, latria is reserved for God alone, while veneration given to saints is called dulia.

Advanced Usage:

• In theological debates, scholars may differentiate between latria and dulia to explain the appropriate forms of worship and honor that believers should give to God and to saints.

Word Variants:

• The term "latreia" is a variant that comes from Greek and can sometimes be used interchangeably with latria, although it may have slightly different connotations in specific religious contexts.

Different Meaning:

• While "latria" specifically refers to the worship of God, it is often contrasted with "dulia," which refers to the honor given to saints and angels. Understanding this distinction is important in religious studies.

Synonyms:

• Worship (in a specific religious context)
• Adoration (though this may not always imply the exclusivity of worship to God)

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There are no direct idioms or phrasal verbs that use "latria" since it is a specialized term. However, you might hear phrases like "to give latria" when discussing the act of worshiping God.

Summary:

Latria is a specific term used to describe the worship that is due to God alone. It is important in religious contexts, especially in Christianity, to distinguish it from other forms of honor and veneration.

Academic

Noun

1. the worship given to God alone

Synonyms

• adoration