EMBER DAYS Meaning and
Definition
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Ember days refer to specific periods or days in the Christian calendar that are traditionally observed as fasting and prayer days. These days occur within the liturgical seasons of the Catholic Church, specifically during the four seasons of the year: winter, spring, summer, and autumn. Ember days were originally instituted to give thanks to God for the blessings of the season and to seek His guidance and protection for the upcoming season.
These days typically fall on a Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday of a particular week in each season. The term "ember" is believed to derive from the Old English word "ymbren," meaning a circuit or circuitous course. Ember days represent a recurring cycle within the yearly calendar.
During Ember days, Catholics traditionally engage in acts of penance, such as fasting, abstinence from meat, and increased prayer. They are also encouraged to undertake acts of charity and attend Holy Mass. The specific practices and requirements may vary depending on the particular region or diocese.
Ember days have an ancient origin, dating back to the early centuries of the Church. Over time, their liturgical significance and observance have evolved. While their observance is no longer obligatory in many places, they remain an important spiritual and devotional practice for some Catholics who continue to observe these days as an opportunity for deepening their faith and renewing their spiritual commitment.
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In the Church calendar, certain fast-days for imploring a blessing on the fruits of the earth, and on the ordinations performed at those times, occurring on the Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday after the first Sunday of Lent, after the feast of Whitsunday, and after the 14th Sept. and 13th Dec.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for EMBER DAYS
- ember dzay
- wmber days
- smber days
- dmber days
- rmber days
- 4mber days
- 3mber days
- enber days
- ekber days
- ejber days
- emver days
- emner days
- emher days
- emger days
- embwr days
- embsr days
- embdr days
- embrr days
- emb4r days
- emb3r days
Etymology of EMBER DAYS
The term ember days can be traced back to the Old English word ymbren or ymb-ryne, which means a circuit or revolution. The word ymbren evolved into ymbren-tid or ymbren-daeg, which translates to ember-time or ember-day. Ymbren-daeg referred to specific days in the liturgical calendar in the Christian tradition, which marked the changing of the seasons and involved fasting and prayer. Over time, the term was anglicized and condensed into ember days.
Similar spelling words for EMBER DAYS
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