BROWN SCAPULAR Meaning and
Definition
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The brown scapular is a religious devotional item associated with the Roman Catholic Church. It consists of two small pieces of brown cloth, typically wool, connected by strings and worn over the shoulders, with one piece hanging down in the front and the other in the back. The term "scapular" refers to a garment or cloth worn as a sign of religious commitment.
The brown scapular holds significant spiritual symbolism within Catholic tradition. It is associated with the Carmelite order, which originated in the thirteenth century. The brown scapular is a sign of affiliation with the Carmelites and expresses a commitment to live according to their spiritual values.
Wearing the brown scapular is believed to convey various spiritual benefits. It is considered a sign of devotion to the Virgin Mary and her protection, as the scapular is often associated with an apparition of Mary to St. Simon Stock, a Carmelite, in the thirteenth century. It is also believed to be a symbol of a person's dedication to growing in holiness and their desire to imitate Christ. Additionally, the brown scapular is associated with the promise of the "sabbatine privilege," which suggests that those who faithfully wear the scapular and follow certain conditions may be released from purgatory on the first Saturday after their death.
The brown scapular is a cherished devotional item within Catholicism, representing a sign of devotion, spiritual connection, and the desire for divine protection.
Etymology of BROWN SCAPULAR
The word "brown scapular" has a straightforward etymology based on the terms it comprises.
The term "brown" refers to the color of the scapular. It is derived from the Old English word "brún" and Middle English word "broun", both of which ultimately come from the Proto-Germanic word "brūnaz". The color brown is associated with the outer garment, known as the scapular, often made from brown cloth.
The term "scapular" originates from the Latin word "scapula", which means "shoulder blade" or "shoulder". In Christian religious contexts, a scapular is a cloth garment typically worn over the shoulders, long and rectangular in shape, and usually associated with a particular devotion, order, or organization within the Catholic Church.
