WALDENSES Meaning and
Definition
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The term Waldenses refers to a historically persecuted religious group known as the Waldensians. The Waldenses were followers of Peter Waldo, a merchant from Lyon, France, who lived in the 12th century. They were a Christian sect known for their commitment to living a simple, apostolic lifestyle. They believed in preaching the Gospel in its purest form, rejecting what they saw as the corrupt practices and doctrines of the Catholic Church.
The Waldenses faced severe persecution for their beliefs, often being labeled as heretics and subject to harassment, torture, and execution. Despite this, they remained steadfast in their faith and continued to spread their message throughout Europe, particularly in the valleys of the Western Alps.
The Waldenses believed in the authority of Scripture and rejected the hierarchical structure of the Catholic Church. They advocated for individual interpretation of the Bible and emphasized the importance of personal piety and moral living. They believed in following the examples of Jesus and the early Christian apostles, living a life of poverty and preaching the Gospel to all.
Today, the term Waldenses is often used to refer to the descendants of this religious group, who exist primarily in Italy and South America. They have preserved their unique Christian traditions and remain committed to their historical roots, though their practices and beliefs have evolved over time.
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A sect of Protestants residing in the valleys of Piedmont, established by Peter Waldo about A.D. 1180.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for WALDENSES
Etymology of WALDENSES
The word "Waldenses" is derived from the medieval Latin term "Waldenses" or "Valdenses", which comes from the Old French term "vallensis" or "vaudois". This Old French term refers to the inhabitants of the Valleys of Piedmont in northern Italy, where a Christian movement known as the Waldensians emerged in the 12th century.
The name "Waldenses" is often associated with the founder of the movement, Peter Waldo (also known as Valdes or Valdo), a wealthy merchant from Lyon, France, who gave up his material possessions to follow a more devout Christian lifestyle. The movement he inspired was characterized by its emphasis on poverty, preaching, and literacy, as well as its rejection of certain practices and beliefs of the Catholic Church.
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