extended definition of the word religous

Extended Definition of the Word Religious

When defining a word , a simple step to take is get a dictionary and it will surely help someone whose problem is grasping for the meaning of a particular word . And as one reaches for a dictionary to determine a word 's definition , observation has to be taken with regards to the word 's denotation /s (direct meaning ) and connotation /s (meanings which are implied , if ever these are included . In so doing , a proper grasp of the word will be obtained . The same basic rules will

be applied by this writer to clarify on the meaning of the word religious ' From its first meaning , to how it is being used by many nowadays , to how the Bible uses the word . Dr . Lisa Rowe Fraustino , an editor and a professor at State University of New York , said that the meaning of words changes over time . If one wants to find out what is the exact meaning of a term or an expression in a culture , the person needs to observe carefully how do the speakers /use it (Fraustino , 1998 . Generally , the word religious is taken to mean of a person who is observant of a religion a person who devoutly follows certain spiritual teachings of a considered sacred society ( HYPERLINK "http /www .brainyquote .com /words /re /religious211796 .html http /www .brainyquote .com /words /re /religious211796 .html . This kind of definition is what people commonly apply to monks , priests , an ordained minister , and to those who are simply observants of certain religions In recent years though , the word is acquiring an extended meaning . It can now be applied to just anything that characterizes rigidity . A doctor may advice a patient , who is bline diabetic to avoid foods high in sugar content , and may tell the patient finally , to follow the advice religiously ' This means , because of the patient 's need to cut on sugar , to follow the rigidly . If the person in this case , before being diagnosed as having too much high blood sugar , was naturally a type who has a liking for sweets , this time - as the doctor had given his professional advice - sweet foods must be reduced to tolerable measure , if not doctor means when he told his patient to keep his advice in a religious ' manner . Thus , today , the uses of the word religious have extended beyond its original meaning . Although it retains certain aspects of it , like the scrupulous observance of a devout person to his /her religion , the connotations now include anything that suggests strictness , and not necessarily commitment to a spiritual

The general understanding that is retained by many about religious is most likely taken from the Bible 's portrayal of it in several passages found therein . For example , in the book of Acts 17 :22 in the New Testament , Apostle Paul observed the Athenians to be very religious ' The Apostle has used the word in its broad meaning , which includes allegiance to certain beliefs...