Definition

Proper noun A council of the Roman Catholic Church convened by Pope Alexander III in 1179 at the Lateran Palace in Rome. It is historically significant for its ecclesiastical legislation and its condemnation of certain heretical groups.

Examples of Usage

• The Third Lateran Council established important rules for papal elections.
• Historians study the canons issued by the Third Lateran Council.
• The heresies of the Waldensians were addressed at the Third Lateran Council.

Advanced Usage

• The council is often referenced in historical and theological studies of medieval church law and the Church's response to dissent.
• It is typically cited by its numerical order within the series of Lateran Councils (e.g., "as decreed by the Third Lateran").

Variants and Related Words

• Lateran Council: The general term for any of the ecumenical councils held at the Lateran Palace. The Third Lateran Council is one of five major councils in this series.
• Council: A formal assembly convened for discussion or legislation, especially of a religious nature.

Synonyms

• (There are no direct synonyms for this specific historical event. It may be referred to descriptively as) .

Related Phrases

• To convene a council: To call a council into session.
  • Pope Alexander III convened the Third Lateran Council.
• To issue canons/decrees: To formally proclaim the laws or decisions of a council.
  • The Third Lateran Council issued canons concerning clerical discipline.

Related Terminology

• Canon law: The body of laws and regulations made by ecclesiastical authority.
• Heresy: Belief or opinion contrary to orthodox religious doctrine.
• Ecumenical council: A conference of ecclesiastical dignitaries and theological experts convened to discuss and settle matters of Church doctrine and practice.

Noun

1. the Lateran Council in 1179 that condemned the heresies of the Albigenses and the Waldenses