Hagiographical meaning

Hagiographical refers to a style of writing that glorifies or idealizes the life of a saint or religious figure, often highlighting their virtues and miraculous deeds.


Hagiographical definitions

Word backwards lacihpargoigah
Part of speech The word "hagiographical" is an adjective. It relates to hagiography, which is the writing of the lives of saints.
Syllabic division The syllable separation of the word "hagiographical" is ha-gi-o-gra-phi-cal.
Plural The term "hagiographical" is an adjective and does not have a plural form. It is used to describe something related to hagiography, which is the biography of saints or religious figures. If you need to describe multiple works or texts that are hagiographical in nature, you would typically say "hagiographical texts" or "hagiographical works."
Total letters 14
Vogais (3) a,i,o
Consonants (6) h,g,r,p,c,l

Understanding Hagiographical Literature

Hagiographical literature refers to the genre of texts that document the lives and deeds of saints or venerated figures within various religious traditions. These narratives often highlight the moral and spiritual qualities of the individuals, aiming to inspire the faithful and provide models of virtue. While hagiographies can be found across multiple faiths, they are particularly prominent in Christianity, Islam, and Buddhism.

The Purpose of Hagiographies

The primary purpose of hagiographical texts is to convey a sense of sacred significance surrounding the subject. By chronicling miraculous events, virtuous actions, and profound teachings, these texts not only serve to glorify the saint but also to connect readers with the divine. The stories often emphasize their piety and serve as a medium for promoting the values of the faith, encouraging believers to emulate the saint's virtues.

Characteristics of Hagiographical Narratives

Hagiographical writings typically share several common characteristics. They often include elements such as miraculous occurrences, detailed descriptions of the saint's life, and accounts of their martyrdom or spiritual journeys. These narratives are crafted with an emphasis on dramatic storytelling, occasionally blending factual history with legendary embellishments that serve to enhance the saint's revered status.

The Influence of Hagiography in Religious Contexts

Within the religious context, hagiographies play a crucial role in shaping community identity and reinforcing faith. They provide a historical framework for understanding the development of religious practices and beliefs. Furthermore, they can foster a sense of unity among believers as they recount shared stories and legacies of revered figures, thus strengthening the communal bonds within the faith.

Modern Perspectives on Hagiography

In contemporary scholarship, hagiography is often analyzed through various academic lenses, including literary criticism, theology, and cultural studies. This approach allows for a deeper understanding of the implications behind these texts, as well as their impact on societal values, norms, and beliefs. While many modern readers may approach hagiographies with a sense of skepticism regarding their historical accuracy, they also recognize the profound cultural and spiritual significance these stories hold.

Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Hagiographical Texts

In summary, hagiographical literature remains an enduring facet of religious expression, offering insights into the lives of those revered within faith communities. Through their emphasis on moral virtue, miraculous events, and spiritual legacy, these texts continue to inspire and guide believers in their spiritual journeys. The evolution and interpretation of hagiographies over time reflect not only the development of the associated religions but also the human need for hope, guidance, and inspiration in the quest for the divine.


Hagiographical Examples

  1. The author's hagiographical account of the saint's life captivated readers with its detailed descriptions of miraculous events.
  2. In her hagiographical essay, she highlighted the extraordinary feats of various historical figures who changed the course of history.
  3. Critics argued that the documentary's hagiographical portrayal of the political leader lacked balance and ignored his controversial decisions.
  4. His hagiographical novel painted an idealized version of the artist, glossing over the struggles and failures he faced.
  5. The professor's lecture included a hagiographical analysis of the philosopher's works, emphasizing their impact on modern thought.
  6. Many biographies tend to be hagiographical, focusing excessively on accomplishments while downplaying flaws and failures.
  7. The film, though entertaining, took a hagiographical approach that left out the more complex aspects of the protagonist’s life.
  8. In his review, he critiqued the hagiographical nature of the new biography, suggesting it was more of a tribute than a true account.
  9. Her hagiographical article about the community leader inspired many to take an active role in social justice initiatives.
  10. The historian's hagiographical treatment of the empire's founder emphasized his noble intentions, overshadowing the darker chapters of his reign.


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  • Updated 21/07/2024 - 02:38:35