What does decretist mean?
A decretist is a medieval theologian who emphasized the authority of church councils and decrees over scripture and tradition. This approach to theology was influential in the development of scholasticism, a philosophical and theological movement that emerged in the 12th century. Decretists believed that the decisions of church councils and the decrees of popes and bishops should take precedence over scripture and tradition. This view was not without controversy, as it led to a shift in the balance of power between the church and the state. Despite its historical significance, the term 'decretist' is not commonly used in modern theological or philosophical discourse. However, it remains an important concept in the study of medieval theology and the development of scholasticism. The decretist's emphasis on the authority of church decrees reflects a broader trend in medieval thought, which sought to establish a clear and authoritative framework for understanding the relationship between church and state.
nounA decretist is a medieval theologian who emphasized the authority of church councils and decrees over scripture and tradition.
- A medieval theologian who emphasized the authority of church councils and decrees over scripture and tradition.
"The decretist's views on the role of church councils in shaping doctrine were influential in the development of scholasticism."
"The decretist's views on the role of church councils in shaping doctrine were influential in the development of scholasticism."
"The decretist's emphasis on the authority of church decrees led to a shift in the balance of power between the church and the state."
The plural form 'decretists' is used to refer to multiple medieval theologians who emphasized the authority of church councils and decrees.
"The decretists of the 12th century played a significant role in the development of scholasticism."
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Etymology of decretist
The term 'decretist' is derived from the Latin word 'decretum,' meaning 'decree' or 'decision.' It emerged in the 12th century to describe the views of medieval theologians who emphasized the authority of church councils and decrees. The term is closely related to 'decretal,' a Latin word that refers to a formal decision or decree issued by a church council or pope.
How decretist is actually used
The term 'decretist' is primarily used in historical and theological contexts to describe the views of medieval theologians. It is not commonly used in modern theological or philosophical discourse.