SECTARIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Sectarian, as an adjective, refers to any action, attitude, or belief driven by a strong adherence to a particular religious, political, or ideological group. It describes behavior that is characterized by an excessive and narrow-minded devotion to the principles and practices of a specific sect or faction, often leading to intolerance or discrimination toward those outside the group.
Sectarianism commonly manifests in religious contexts, where it refers to divisions within a religion or religious community due to differing interpretations or beliefs. These divisions often result in conflicts and disputes between different sects, with each group fiercely defending its own doctrines and rituals while rejecting or denouncing others. Such conflicts may extend beyond theological matters and have wider social, political, or historical implications.
In a broader sense, sectarianism can also apply to areas beyond religion, such as politics, where it refers to divisions within a political party or group based on differing beliefs or strategies. This can result in factions that prioritize their own interests over the collective good, leading to infighting and the erosion of unity within the larger grouping.
Sectarianism serves as a reminder of the potential dangers and pitfalls of exclusive ideologies, emphasizing the importance of promoting tolerance, understanding, and cooperation among different religious, political, or ideological groups to foster a more harmonious and inclusive society.
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• One of a sect: a dissenter.
• Pert. to or peculiar to a sect.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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Etymology of SECTARIAN
The word "sectarian" has its etymology in Latin and Middle English. It ultimately derives from the Latin word "secta", which means "school of thought", "party", or "group". In Middle English, it evolved into "sectary", referring to a member of a sect or religious group. Later, around the 17th century, the term "sectary" transformed into "sectarian", which retained the meaning of someone adhering to a particular sect or promoting its interests. Over time, the word broadened its scope to encompass any divisive or factional behavior based on conflicting beliefs, not only in religious contexts.
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