Benefices meaning

Benefices are ecclesiastical offices or revenues conferred by the church to individuals as a reward for services rendered.


Benefices definitions

Word backwards secifeneb
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division ben-e-fic-es
Plural The plural of the word "benefice" is "benefices."
Total letters 9
Vogais (2) e,i
Consonants (5) b,n,f,c,s

Benefices are a form of compensation or reward, often in the form of land or money, given to individuals for their services. In the context of benefices, these rewards are typically granted by a religious institution to clergy members or other individuals who have provided valuable services to the church.

The History of Benefices

Benefices have a long history dating back to medieval times when most clergy members were supported through the income generated from land grants or other forms of compensation. These benefices were often hereditary, meaning they could be passed down from one generation to the next within a family.

Types of Benefices

There are various types of benefices, including prebends, sinecures, and canonries. Prebends are specific portions of the income or property that are assigned to a clergy member. Sinecures refer to benefices that come with little or no actual duties attached to them. Canonries are benefices granted to members of a cathedral chapter.

Modern-Day Significance

While benefices have historical roots in the church, they still hold importance in modern-day society. In some countries, benefices are used to compensate individuals for their services to religious or charitable organizations. They can also serve as a way to acknowledge and reward individuals for their contributions to society.

Overall, benefices play a significant role in recognizing the efforts and contributions of individuals within religious and charitable institutions. Whether through land grants, monetary rewards, or other forms of compensation, benefices continue to be a valuable way to reward individuals for their dedication and service.


Benefices Examples

  1. The clergyman received benefices from the church for his service.
  2. Historically, benefices were often granted by monarchs to loyal supporters.
  3. The benefices of the land were divided among the local nobility.
  4. He hoped to secure a benefice that would provide a steady income.
  5. The charitable organization relied on benefices from donors to fund their projects.
  6. In medieval times, benefices were sometimes used as a form of political patronage.
  7. The bishop awarded the benefices to the most deserving members of the clergy.
  8. The nobleman bestowed a benefice upon his loyal servant in gratitude for his service.
  9. The king granted a benefice to the monastery in recognition of their contributions to society.
  10. The distribution of benefices among the clergy was a complex process governed by strict rules.


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  • Updated 29/06/2024 - 03:47:34