MONTANISM Meaning and
Definition
-
Montanism refers to a religious movement that emerged in the 2nd century AD, predominantly in the Eastern Roman Empire. It was founded by Montanus, a Christian prophet from Phrygia (in present-day Turkey), who claimed to receive direct revelations from the Holy Spirit. The followers of Montanism, known as Montanists or New Prophecy, held the belief that the second coming of Christ was imminent and that they were the chosen instruments to deliver the final revelation before the end of the world.
Montanism was characterized by its emphasis on ecstatic prophetic utterances, strict asceticism, and a rejection of certain church authorities. The movement gained significant popularity through the charismatic leadership of Montanus and his prophetesses, Prisca (Priscilla) and Maximilla, who were believed to possess a higher level of spiritual insight.
However, Montanism faced opposition from established church leaders who regarded the movement as a challenge to their authority. They dismissed Montanus' claims of divine inspiration and criticized the ecstatic practices and radical teachings of the Montanists. The mainstream Christian church ultimately condemned Montanism as heresy and it gradually declined in influence by the 4th century.
Today, Montanism is largely considered a historical movement within the context of early Christianity. However, its emphasis on direct spiritual experiences and the role of prophecy has had an enduring impact on the development of charismatic and Pentecostal expressions of Christianity.
-
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for MONTANISM
- nontanism
- kontanism
- jontanism
- mintanism
- mkntanism
- mlntanism
- mpntanism
- m0ntanism
- m9ntanism
- mobtanism
- momtanism
- mojtanism
- mohtanism
- monranism
- monfanism
- monganism
- monyanism
- mon6anism
- mon5anism
- montznism
Etymology of MONTANISM
The word "Montanism" derives from the name of Montanus, the founder of the religious movement known as Montanism. Montanism emerged in the 2nd century AD and was considered a sect within early Christianity. The movement was founded by Montanus, who claimed to be a prophet through whom the Holy Spirit spoke. Followers of Montanus were known as Montanists. The name "Montanus" itself is believed to be a Latinized form of the Greek name "Montanos", which could mean "mountain man" or "man from the mountain". The etymology of the word "Montanism" is closely tied to the name of its founder.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
