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simonist

simonist

9.9
A follower of Simon Magus in an early Christian group
  • noun
  • Literature
: simonista
  • According to Andreas, though recognizing the enormity of breaking his vow of obedience, John was terrified at the prospect of remaining at St. Miniato under a Simonist abbot.

Examples

  • Many debated the practices of the simonists, who were often viewed as heretical by the orthodox church.

  • The historian wrote about the simonists and their beliefs that deviated from mainstream religious practices.

  • In her research, she studied the teachings of the simonist sect and their influence on early Christianity.

Surface Forms

simonist singular
simonists plural

Morphology

simonist = Simon (semi-transparent) = Simon + ist

This is a regular '-ist' formation meaning a follower or adherent of Simon, but the historical Simon Magus reference may be unfamiliar to many learners.

Etymology

Simonist originally meant a follower of Simon Magus, an early teacher who led his own religious group, so in old texts a simonist is a member of that group.