Athanasian Creed
- noun
- /ˌæθəˈneɪʒən krid/
- Formal
- Many Christians regard the Athanasian Creed as essential.
Examples
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Scholars have debated the origins and authorship of the Athanasian Creed for centuries.
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The Athanasian Creed emphasizes the equality of the three persons of the Trinity.
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Many churches recite the Athanasian Creed during their liturgical services on special occasions.
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The Athanasian Creed is recited during certain church services.
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The Athanasian Creed outlines the essential doctrines of the Trinity and the incarnation for Christians.
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According to the Athanasian Creed, belief in the Trinity is crucial for salvation.
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Historians study the Athanasian Creed to understand the development of Christian theology.
Synonyms
A set of beliefs that guide a person or group
Surface Forms
Morphology
The compound is compositional: 'Athanasian' = relating to Athanasius and 'creed' = a statement of beliefs, so a learner who knows both constituents can infer it is a statement of faith associated with Athanasius. Although the precise doctrinal details (Trinity, incarnation) are not predictable from the label, the basic referent (an eponymous creed) is directly derivable.
Etymology
Athanasian Creed may be named for the early church leader Athanasius, because this creed strongly defends the idea of the Trinity. So, the name points to a clear 'statement of belief' about the three persons of God.