adjective

ökumenisch

ecumenical

Definition & meaning

The word "ökumenisch" generally refers to something that concerns the entirety of the inhabited world or, more commonly, the unity and cooperation of different Christian denominations.

  1. Ecumenical (Christianity): Relating to the movement or tendency toward worldwide Christian unity or cooperation. It describes efforts to bring together different churches or to promote understanding and fellowship between various Christian traditions.
  2. Universal/Global: In a broader or secular sense, it can refer to something that is all-encompassing, universal, or pertaining to the whole world.

Grammar & Word origin

"Ökumenisch" is an adjective. It is derived from the Greek word "oikoumenikos," which comes from "oikoumene," meaning "the inhabited world."

In the Christian context, it describes the "oikoumene" as the totality of the Church. The term is widely used in German theological and ecclesiastical discourse.

Synonyms & antonyms

Synonyms:

  • allumfassend (all-encompassing)
  • weltweit (worldwide)
  • überkonfessionell (interdenominational)
  • allgemein (general)

Antonyms:

  • konfessionell (denominational, restrictive to one specific confession)
  • sektiererisch (sectarian)
  • partikular (particular, limited)

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Examples

Die Veranstaltung war sehr ökumenisch geprägt.adjective

The event was very ecumenical in nature.

Viele Christen treffen sich regelmäßig zu einem ökumenischen Gebet.adjective

Many Christians meet regularly for an ecumenical prayer.

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