Monks, Monasticism, and Biblical Literary Forms

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key topics, terms, and concepts related to medieval monasticism, biblical literary genres, and Catholic doctrine.

Monasticism

A religious way of life focused on devotion, community life, daily routines, dietary rules, and spiritual practices within a monastery or abby.

St Benedict and the Benedictine Monks

A monastic founder and religious order studied for where and when they were established, as well as the specific monastic vows they take.

Lectio Divinia

A traditional spiritual practice and discipline integrated into the daily life of a medieval monk.

Monastic Diet

The specific rules and patterns governing food and drink consumed as part of the daily life of a medieval monk.

Monastic Clothing

The distinctive garments and attire worn by medieval monks reflecting their religious life and vows.

Inventions and Innovations of the Monastic Period

Technological, agricultural, and practical developments made during the monastic era that involved the active labor and participation of monks.

Religious Orders

Structured communities and organizations of monastic life categorized across past and present history.

Monastery/Abby

A communal residence and religious complex where monks live, work, and pray, characterized by specific architectural and communal features.

Illuminated Manuscripts

Handmade, decorated religious texts produced during the monastic era, defined by their purpose, distinct artistic features, production methods, and makers.

Old Testament

One of the two foundational elements that constitute the Bible, paired with the New Testament.

New Testament

One of the two foundational elements of the Bible, forming scripture alongside the Old Testament.

Literal Language

A mode of biblical expression that conveys direct, plain meaning, contrasted with figurative language.

Figurative Language

Language in biblical texts that uses symbolic expressions and figures of speech rather than strict literal statements.

Literary Forms in the Bible

The various genres and textual categories found within biblical scripture, each distinguished by unique literary features.

Myths

A distinct literary form in the Bible characterized by symbolic storytelling features.

Historical Stories

A biblical literary form that presents narrative accounts concerning historical events and figures.

Law

A biblical literary form consisting of legal commands, moral statutes, and ordinances.

Poetry/Songs

A literary form in the Bible consisting of verse compositions, lyrics, and musical expressions.

Wisdom

A biblical literary form consisting of sayings, proverbs, and teachings about prudent and righteous living.

Gospels

A core biblical literary form categorized alongside letters and historical narratives within scripture.

Letters

A biblical literary form composed of written communications and epistles addressed to individuals or faith communities.

Prayers

A biblical literary form consisting of words of devotion, invocation, petition, and praise addressed to God.

Biblical Fundamentalism

An approach to biblical interpretation that adheres strictly to literal interpretations of the text.

Biblical Truth vs Literal Truth

The theological distinction between the underlying spiritual truths conveyed by biblical texts and direct factual or literal correctness.

Sacred vs Biblical Law

The conceptual distinction between broader divine sacred law and the written legal statutes recorded in the Bible.

Nicene Creed

A foundational Christian statement of faith examined for its literary form, history of creation, and explanation of key Catholic beliefs.