CATHARI Meaning and
Definition
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Cathari refers to a medieval Christian sect that emerged during the 12th and 13th centuries, primarily in Europe. As a religious movement, the Cathari believed in a dualistic worldview, distinguishing between the spiritual and the material realms. Their theological beliefs were steeped in Gnosticism, with a strong emphasis on the inherent evil of the material world and the necessity for spiritual purity through asceticism.
The Cathari rejected the authority of the Catholic Church, denouncing its sacraments, clergy, and hierarchical structure. They believed in direct personal communion with God, considering themselves the true followers of Jesus Christ. Central to their doctrine was the concept of immateriality and the necessity to renounce worldly possessions, leading a simple and austere life.
Cathari beliefs were met with opposition from mainstream Christian groups, leading to their persecution as heretics. In response, the Catholic Church launched the Albigensian Crusade in the Languedoc region of southern France, which sought to eradicate Catharism by force. This campaign resulted in the massacre of both Cathar believers and those who sympathized with their teachings.
Today, the Cathari are primarily studied as a historical religious movement. Their unique beliefs and practices offer insight into the diversity and complexity of medieval Christian thought, as well as the conflicts arising from dissent against established ecclesiastical authority.
Common Misspellings for CATHARI
- xathari
- vathari
- fathari
- dathari
- czthari
- csthari
- cwthari
- cqthari
- carhari
- cafhari
- caghari
- cayhari
- ca6hari
- ca5hari
- catgari
- catbari
- catnari
- catjari
- catuari
- catyari
Etymology of CATHARI
The word "Cathari" is derived from the Greek word "katharoi", which means "the pure ones" or "the purified". The term was used to describe a sect of Christian heretics who emerged in the 12th century in Southern France. The Cathari were known for their belief in dualism and rejection of material possessions. They deemed the material world to be inherently evil, while seeking spiritual purity and salvation. The word "Cathari" was used to identify the members of this sect, emphasizing their perception of themselves as the "pure" ones.
Similar spelling words for CATHARI
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