paganize
/'peigənaiz/ Cách viết khác : (paganise) /'peigənaiz/
Học thuậtThân thiện
The missionary worried that local traditions would paganize the new converts.
Definition
Verb: 1. To make something pagan in character or nature: To cause something (such as a religion, practice, or belief system) to adopt or incorporate the qualities, rituals, or doctrines associated with paganism. 2. To convert to paganism: To cause someone to adopt pagan beliefs or practices.
Usage and Examples
- To make something pagan in character:
- Some historians argue that certain festivals were paganized over time, blending with local traditions.
- The ancient ritual was paganized when it incorporated nature worship.
- To convert to paganism:
- The invading tribe sought to paganize the conquered people.
- Missionaries were concerned that the isolated community would paganize.
Advanced Usage
- "to paganize a concept": To reinterpret or adapt a concept so it aligns with pagan principles.
- The philosopher attempted to paganize the idea of the soul, linking it to natural spirits.
- Used in historical or religious critique: Often used in academic or theological contexts to describe a perceived corruption or syncretism of a monotheistic or orthodox tradition.
- The scholar's thesis is that early symbols were paganized by later cultural influences.
Variants and Related Words
- Paganization (noun): The process or act of making something pagan.
- The paganization of the holiday is a topic of debate.
- Paganise (verb): British English spelling variant of 'paganize'.
- Repaganize (verb): To make pagan again after a period of not being pagan.
- Pagan (noun/adjective): A person holding religious beliefs other than those of the main world religions; relating to paganism.
- Paganism (noun): A religion other than one of the main world religions, typically a nature-centered or polytheistic faith.
Synonyms
- Heathenize: To make heathen or pagan. (More archaic)
- Profane: To treat (something sacred) with irreverence or disrespect, which can be a related concept in some contexts.
- Secularize: To make something secular or non-religious. (Note: This is different but can be a parallel process of removing orthodox religious character.)
Antonyms
- Christianize: To convert to Christianity.
- Convert: To change one's religious faith, often to a mainstream religion.
- Sanctify: To set apart as or declare holy.
Related Phrases and Contexts
- "to paganize a tradition": This phrase is commonly used in anthropology and religious studies to describe how a previously non-pagan tradition absorbs pagan elements.
- Used in contrast with "purify" or "reform": In religious history, movements often sought to de-paganize or purify practices that were seen as having been paganized.
The missionary worried that local traditions would paganize the new converts.
Verb
- make pagan in character
- The Church paganized Christianity