How Do You Spell PELAGIANISM?

Pronunciation: [pɛlˈe͡ɪd͡ʒənˌɪzəm] (IPA)

Pelagianism, pronounced /pəˈleɪdʒənɪzəm/, is a theological doctrine that holds that human beings are capable of achieving salvation through their own free will, without the need for divine intervention or grace. The word is spelled with a "P" instead of a "B" because it is derived from the name Pelagius, a British monk who promulgated the doctrine in the 4th century. The "ian" suffix denotes association or membership, and the "-ism" suffix denotes a doctrine, belief or system of thought.

PELAGIANISM Meaning and Definition

1. Pelagianism is a theological doctrine that originated in the 4th century and was named after Pelagius, a British-born monk. It encompasses a set of beliefs that reject the concept of original sin and emphasize the role of human free will and personal effort in achieving salvation. Pelagianism posits that individuals have the ability to choose good or evil without the need for divine grace. According to this doctrine, humanity remains untarnished by original sin, and individuals have the capacity to attain righteousness by their own moral choices.

   Central to Pelagianism is the notion that salvation is earned through the exercise of individual willpower and ethical behavior, rather than being granted as a result of God's grace. It opposes the concept of predestination, which suggests that God determines beforehand who will be saved or damned. Pelagians argue that humanity's moral strength alone is sufficient to align one's life with God's will and achieve eternal life.

   Pelagianism sparked controversy within early Christianity, with various councils and religious authorities labeling it as heresy. Opponents argue that Pelagianism undermines the essential Christian doctrine of redemption through Jesus Christ and overemphasizes human ability, eclipsing the necessity of God's grace for salvation. Throughout history, the influence of Pelagianism has persisted to varying degrees, sometimes sparking debates and divisions within religious communities over the nature of humanity, sin, and the divine role in salvation.

2. The doctrines of Pelagius.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for PELAGIANISM

• oelagianism
• lelagianism
• -elagianism
• 0elagianism
• pwlagianism
• pslagianism
• pdlagianism
• prlagianism
• p4lagianism
• p3lagianism
• pekagianism
• pepagianism
• peoagianism
• pelzgianism
• pelsgianism
• pelwgianism
• pelqgianism
• pelafianism
• pelavianism
• pelabianism

Etymology of PELAGIANISM

The word "Pelagianism" derives from the name of Pelagius, a British monk and theologian who lived in the 4th and 5th centuries. Pelagius was well-known for his controversial teachings regarding the nature of sin, free will, and grace. His doctrines were opposed by Augustine of Hippo, a prominent theologian and bishop, who argued for a more theological view of original sin and the necessity of divine grace. As a result of the debates and disputes surrounding Pelagius' teachings, the term "Pelagianism" was coined to refer to his theological system and has been used ever since to describe his teachings and those who follow them.