Ecumenical refers to efforts promoting unity and cooperation among different Christian denominations or religions.
History of the Word Ecumenical
Origin
The term ecumenical derives from the Greek word oikoumenikos, which means inhabited world. It was initially used in the context of the ancient Greek world to refer to the known and inhabited world. Later, in the Christian context, it came to signify a broader sense of the Christian world and the efforts to unite various Christian denominations.
Early Christian Councils
The historical foundation of ecumenism can be traced back to early Christian church councils, such as the First Council of Nicaea in AD 325. These councils aimed to establish theological and doctrinal unity among Christians.
Modern Ecumenical Movement
The modern ecumenical movement gained momentum in the 20th century, promoting cooperation, dialogue, and unity among different Christian traditions and denominations. Prominent organizations, such as the World Council of Churches, have played a significant role in fostering inter-church relations and understanding.
Expanding Scope
While ecumenical is primarily associated with Christianity, it is also used more broadly to describe interfaith efforts and dialogues seeking unity and common ground among different religious traditions.
English (Ecumenical As Adjective)
Etymology
Ecumenical originates from the Greek “oikoumenikos,” meaning inhabited world, and signifies efforts for unity.
Pronunciation
Pronounced: /ˌɛkjuːˈmɛnɪkəl/ (ek-yoo-MEN-i-Kuhl).
Forms of Ecumenical
| Adjective | Ecumenical |
| Comparative Degree | more ecumenical |
| Superlative Degree | most ecumenical |
| Adverb | Ecumenically |
| Noun | Ecumenicalism |
Derived Terms
- Ecumenically
- Ecumenism
- Ecumenic
- Ecumenicalism
Translations
- Spanish: Ecuménico
- French: Œcuménique
- German: Ökumenisch
- Italian: Ecumenico
- Portuguese: Ecumênico
- Chinese (Simplified): 普世的 (pǔshì de)
- Japanese: 世界的な (Sekai-tekina)
- Hindi: सर्वधर्मी (Sarvadharmī)
- Urdu: عالمی (Aalami)
- Russian: Экуменический (Ekumenicheskiy)
Synonyms
- Interfaith
- Interdenominational
- Inclusive
- Universal
- Unifying
Antonyms
- Sectarian
- Exclusive
- Particularistic
- Divisive
- Sectarian
Examples Sentence
- The ecumenical council aimed to bridge theological differences.
- Her work promoted ecumenical understanding between religions.
- They held an ecumenical prayer service for unity.
FAQs (People May Also Ask)
What does ecumenical mean?
Ecumenical refers to efforts promoting unity and cooperation among different Christian denominations or religions.
What is the origin of the word ecumenical?
It originates from the Greek “oikoumenikos,” meaning “inhabited world,” and signifies efforts for unity.
Can ecumenical be used in non-Christian contexts?
Yes, it is used more broadly to describe interfaith efforts and dialogues seeking unity among different religious traditions.
Are there organizations that promote ecumenical activities?
Yes, organizations like the World Council of Churches work to foster inter-church relations and understanding.
What are some synonyms for ecumenical?
Synonyms include interfaith, interdenominational, inclusive, universal, and unifying.