BEDELRY Meaning and
Definition
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Bedelry is a term that refers to an institution or an area managed by a religious community, in particular, a hospital or an almshouse. It is derived from the Middle English word "bede" meaning "prayer" or "petition" and "lery" referring to the building or place. Therefore, bedelry can be described as a facility established and maintained by a religious organization, usually for the primary purpose of providing care and shelter to the needy, especially the sick or elderly.
Historically, bedelries were closely associated with monastic or religious orders, with the community members themselves often providing medical services or assistance to the individuals residing within. These establishments were commonly found in medieval Europe and were an integral part of the social and welfare systems of the time. They played a crucial role in providing basic healthcare and support to those who were unable to care for themselves due to illness, poverty, or old age.
Bedelries often possessed their own chapel or oratory, where prayers and religious services were held for the welfare of the residents and the overall community. In addition, they typically received donations or endowments from wealthier benefactors, which helped support their operations and the necessary provisions for those in need.
While bedelries may no longer be as prevalent in modern society, the concept of providing care and shelter to those most vulnerable remains important. The historical significance of bedelries illustrates the long-standing tradition of religious organizations being at the forefront of delivering humanitarian aid and social welfare.
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The extent of a beadle's office.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for BEDELRY
- vedelry
- nedelry
- hedelry
- gedelry
- bwdelry
- bsdelry
- bddelry
- brdelry
- b4delry
- b3delry
- beselry
- bexelry
- becelry
- befelry
- berelry
- beeelry
- bedwlry
- bedslry
- beddlry
- bedrlry
Etymology of BEDELRY
The word "bedelry" is derived from the Old English word "bedurlic" or "bederlic". The term can be further broken down into two elements: "bede", which means prayer or request, and "lic", which means like or pertaining to.
Originally, a bedelry referred to a place or office where prayers were requested or offered. In medieval times, it specifically referred to a district that had jurisdiction over the administration of prayers, collection of alms, and maintenance of religious establishments. The term gradually fell out of usage over time and is now considered archaic.
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