propitiation
/propitiation/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- The act of atoning for sin or wrongdoing (especially appeasing a deity): "Propitiation" refers to the action of making amends or offering something to gain forgiveness, particularly from a god or divine power, to turn away anger or punishment.
- The act of placating and overcoming distrust and animosity: It also means the action of calming, soothing, or pacifying someone to remove their hostility or ill will.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- Ancient rituals often involved the propitiation of the gods with sacrifices. (This describes the act of appeasing deities.)
- His apology was more an act of propitiation than a sincere expression of regret. (This describes an act meant to placate someone's anger.)
Advanced Usage
- Theological Context: In Christian theology, "propitiation" specifically refers to the work of Christ in appeasing God's wrath against sin.
- The doctrine of propitiation is central to understanding the atonement.
- Anthropological/Sociological Context: The term is used to describe appeasement rituals in various cultures.
- The anthropologist studied the propitiation ceremonies of the indigenous tribe.
Variants and Related Words
- Propitiate (verb): To win or regain the favor of (a god, spirit, or person) by doing something that pleases them.
- They sought to propitiate the angry spirits with offerings.
- Propitious (adjective): Giving or indicating a good chance of success; favorable. (This is a related but distinct meaning, describing a favorable condition, often as a result of successful appeasement).
- They waited for a propitious moment to begin their journey.
Synonyms
- Appeasement: The action of pacifying or placating.
- Conciliation: The action of stopping someone from being angry or discontented.
- Atonement: Reparation for a wrong or injury, especially in a religious context.
- Placation: The act of making someone less angry or hostile.
Antonyms
- Provocation: Action or speech that makes someone angry, especially deliberately.
- Aggravation: The state of becoming worse or more serious; exacerbation (of a feeling like anger).
Related Phrases and Concepts
- Rite of propitiation: A formal ceremony or act intended to appease.
- The village performed the annual rite of propitiation for a bountiful harvest.
- Offer propitiation: To present something as a means to appease.
- The emissaries were sent to offer propitiation to the conquering army.
Noun
- the act of atoning for sin or wrongdoing (especially appeasing a deity)
- the act of placating and overcoming distrust and animosity