What are the 7 sacraments?

The seven sacraments of the Catholic Church are baptism, Eucharist, confirmation, marriage, priestly order, reconciliation and Anointing of the Sick. These sacraments are also recognized by the Orthodox Church and the Coptic Church.

A sacrament is understood as a sensible and effective sign of divine grace, and a means to achieve holiness. The sacraments are said to be effective, because in them what they signify becomes a reality. Indeed, for believers, the sacraments communicate the real (but invisible) presence of God through a visible sign.

For the Church, the sacraments were instituted by Jesus Christ. The arguments are found in different passages in the Gospels and in the letters of the Apostles, in the Bible. Next, let's see what each sacrament consists of, its meaning, its symbols and biblical foundations.

1. Baptism

Baptism of a baby. The photograph documents the moment when the water was poured over his head, in sign of his spiritual birth into the Christian life.

Baptism is a sacrament of initiation in which the contracting party receives the Holy Spirit, begins following the Gospel and joins the Church. The minister is usually a bishop, priest, or deacon. However, in case of danger of death, any baptized person can administer a emergency baptism. Baptism is aimed at both children and adults.

Meaning of baptism

The baptism ceremony represents the purification of original sin and turns the baptized person into a living temple of God. Therefore, baptism constitutes an invitation to holiness and the Church, and the beginning of a life founded on the Gospel.

The visible and obligatory sign of baptism is water, which represents the purification and renewal of life. The Church practices baptism by ablution, which consists of pouring water on the head of the person being baptized.

The sentence or form that seals the effectiveness of baptism is the following: "I baptize you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit."

There are other complementary elements of the baptismal liturgy, such as the anointing of oil and the Holy Chrism; the light of the paschal candle and the white garments. Oil is olive oil that is anointed on the chest to convey the gift of strength. The Holy Chrism is perfumed oil that is anointed on the head in representation of the Holy Spirit.

The light of the paschal candle is a long and thick candle that represents the risen Christ and the Christian duty to radiate his light. At baptism, it is transmitted to parents and godparents so that they increase the faith of the baptized. The white garments are the symbol of holiness and of the entrance to the "flock" of Christ, that is, to the Church (that is why in the past it was made of sheep's wool).

Biblical Foundations of Baptism

The foundation of baptism is in the gospels. According to these, John the Baptist administered the baptism of immersion in the waters of the Jordan River. Jesus was baptized by John before beginning his public life (see Matthew 3, 13-17; Mark 1, 9-11; Luke 3, 21-22; John 1,29-34).

The Gospels also indicate that Jesus entrusted the apostles to baptize: "Go, then, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit" (Matthew 28, 19). Other references are: Mark 16, 16 and John 3, 5; the Acts of the Apostles and the pastoral letters of Paul and Peter.

Delve into: Baptism.

2. Eucharist

Eucharist. The photograph documents the moment in which the priest prepares to carry out the consecration of the bread and the wine, which are found in the ciborium and the chalice respectively.

The Eucharist consists of the memorial of the life, passion, death and resurrection of Jesus, through the offering (consecration) of bread and wine to God. It also receives the name of communion. Likewise, the ceremony in which bread and wine are received for the first time is called First Communion. The minister of the Eucharist is the priest. The sacrament is addressed to the entire community of the faithful. The baptized and prepared can consume the bread in the form of a host.

Meaning of the Eucharist

The Eucharist is the sacrament par excellence of Catholicism, since it summarizes the entire Christian faith. The Eucharist is the visible sign of the presence of Jesus in the midst of the community of believers. The consecrated bread and wine recall the sacrifice of Christ and are considered his body and blood. In this way, they are the true presence of Jesus, material and spiritual food for the faithful.

The visible sign of the Eucharist is bread and wine, mixed with a little Water. Bread represents the fruit of daily work. Wine represents the fullness of life and the divine. Once consecrated, bread and wine are the body and blood of Christ. The water represents humanity, which implies that the faithful are present in the offering.

The prayer that consecrates the bread and wine as the body and blood of Christ is the following: "Take and eat all of him, because this is my Body that will be given up for you." «Take and drink all of him, because this is my Blood. Blood of the new and eternal covenant that will be shed for you and for all men for the forgiveness of sins.

Biblical foundations of the Eucharist

The biblical foundation of the Eucharist is found in the Gospel accounts of the Last Supper. According to the evangelists, Jesus took the bread and wine, blessed them, and distributed them as a sign of his body and blood. This done, he asked them to repeat this gesture in his memory (see Matthew 26, 17-30; Mark 14: 12-25; John 13, 1-15; Luke 22, 7-20). Other references are: John 6, 30-35; John 6, 48-58; First Letter to Corinthians 10, 16 and 11, 23-29.

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3. Confirmation

Confirmation ceremony. The bishop anoints the Holy Chrism on the forehead of the young man confirming, while his godfather places his right hand on his shoulder, as a symbol of support and guidance in the faith.

Confirmation is a sacrament of initiation that consists of the renewal of baptismal promises. Among them, the rejection of sin, the following of the gospel and the commitment to the Church. The minister is the bishop, who can delegate the function to a priest. The subject can be any baptized person who has taken the first communion.

Confirmation Meaning

Confirmation symbolizes the reaffirmation of Christian faith and commitment, enhanced by the gifts of the Holy Spirit: wisdom, intelligence, counsel, strength, science, piety, and the fear of God.

The material or visible sign of confirmation is the anointing of the Holy Chrism, a scented oil that symbolizes the strengthening of faith and the call to be a witness. Laying on of hands, which conveys God's blessing.

The prayer by which the sacrament of confirmation is sealed is: "Receive by this sign the gift of the Holy Spirit." Once pronounced by the bishop, the person is already confirmed.

Other complementary elements of the confirmation liturgy are: light of the paschal candle and the kiss of peace. Light is a symbol of the life-giving Holy Spirit. The kiss is a sign of the bishop's communion with the faithful.

Biblical Foundations of Confirmation

The main biblical foundation for confirmation is found in the Pentecost passage from the Acts of the Apostles (Acts 2, 1-13). According to the book, after Jesus' death and resurrection, the apostles hid out of fear.

At the end of fifty days, the Holy Spirit was poured out on them, strengthened their faith, filled them with gifts, and sent them out to preach the gospel. Other references are: Acts of the Apostles 19, 1-6. Second Letter to the Corinthians 1, 21-22. Ephesians 1, 13. Hebrews 6, 1-2.

See more in: Confirmation.

4. Marriage

Marriage is a sacrament of service that consists of the union between man and woman before God, with the purpose of founding a Christian family. Any confirmed and single person can contract ecclesiastical marriage. If a member of the couple is not Catholic, a special permit can be requested, which It is granted by the bishop and receives the name of dispensation.

Meaning of marriage

Marriage symbolizes the love and mutual dedication of the couple in a common life project, based on fidelity and service. The family that is constituted by marriage represents the primordial unity of the Church and society, since in it the values ​​of coexistence are taught and multiplied.

For this reason, marriage is the only sacrament in which the contracting parties act at the same time as ministers, subjects and visible sign. Only in this case, the priest acts as a qualified witness and transmits God's blessing to the couple.

The expression that seals the sacrament of marriage is the mutual consent of the union, which occurs when the members of the couple say: "Yes, I accept."

The complementary symbols of baptism are rings and earnest money. The rings they symbolize the loving alliance and the mutual dedication of the spouses. The earnest (coins) symbolize the communion of the material and spiritual goods of the couple.

Biblical Foundations of Marriage

The biblical foundation of the sacrament of marriage is found in the book of Genesis (chapters 1 and 2), where it speaks of the formation of the first couple, Adam and Eve. The gospel also supports the sacrament of marriage. There, Jesus endorses the sacred bond between man and woman, and speaks out against the act of repudiation (Matthew 5, 31-32; Matthew 19, 1-12; Mark 10, 1-12; Luke 16, 18).

See also: Marriage.

5. Priestly order

Priestly ordination. In the center and on the carpet, are the aspiring priests in a prostrate position, as a sign of absolute surrender and humility. Original photograph of the Opus Dei Information Office.

The priestly order is a sacrament of service by means of which an aspirant (baptized male) becomes a priest (priest) at the service of the Church. Its main functions are to evangelize and administer the sacraments. The minister who imposes the priestly order is the bishop. The subject who can receive it is the single, baptized and confirmed male male.

Meaning of the priestly order

The priestly order symbolizes the absolute consecration of the person to the following of Jesus. Both the priesthood and other forms of religious ordination express the exclusive and permanent commitment to the Christian faith, service to the Church, and evangelization.

The material or visible sign of the sacrament is the laying on of hands of the bishop on the aspirant. The prayer that is said to seal the sacrament is called the consecrative prayer. Pray as follows:

«We ask you, Almighty Father, that you entrust to these servants of yours the dignity of the priesthood; renew in their hearts the Spirit of holiness; receive from You the priesthood of the second degree and be, with your conduct, an example of life ».

Biblical foundations of priestly ordination

Ordination to the priesthood has its foundations in the gospel, particularly in the accounts of the Last Supper. According to this passage, Jesus asked his apostles to repeat the memorial of the sacrament in his name and to serve others, for which he set the example by washing their feet (see Matthew 26, 17-35; Mark 14, 12-22; John 13; Jn 15; Luke 22).

Other references are: Luke 10, 16. Acts of the Apostles 6, 6. Acts of the Apostles 15, 2-6. Acts of the Apostles 20, 17. Acts of the Apostles 21, 18. First Letter of Timothy 4, 14. Letter to Titus 1, 5.

6. Reconciliation

Sacrament of Reconciliation, celebrated in an outdoor space. The purple stole represents the role of the priest to grant forgiveness in the name of God.

Reconciliation is a sacrament of healing that consists of confessing sins and receiving God's forgiveness through the priest. It is also called confession or penance, although the latter is no longer used. The minister is the common priest. In extraordinary cases and depending on the severity, it may be the bishop or the Pope. The sacrament is intended for every baptized person who feels in fault (sin).

Meaning of reconciliation

Reconciliation represents the infinite mercy of God in the face of human frailty and the opportunity to walk towards holiness. It is also a source of peace of conscience and spiritual help in the face of temptation.

The visible sign or matter of reconciliation is confession of sins before the priest. The person must prepare a good examination of conscience, make an act of contrition (repentance); have the purpose of amendment (repair the damage) and fulfill the penance.

To give absolution of sins and seal the act of reconciliation, a short prayer or a long prayer can be used. These sentences are:

• Short form: "I absolve you of your sins in the name of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit."
• Long way: «God, the merciful Father, who reconciled the world to himself through the death and resurrection of his Son and poured out the Holy Spirit for the remission of sins, grant you, through the ministry of the Church, forgiveness and peace. And I absolve you of your sins in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit ».

Biblical Foundations of Reconciliation

For Catholics, the New Testament authorizes priests to transmit God's forgiveness to penitents. For example: "Receive the Holy Spirit; whose sins you forgive, they are forgiven; to whom you retain them, they are retained ”(John 20: 22-23).

Also: «I will give you (Peter) the keys to the Kingdom of Heaven; and what you bind on Earth will be bound in Heaven, and what you loose on earth will be loosed in Heaven ”(Matthew 16:19).

Other references can be found in: Matthew 18, 18. Luke 15, 18-19. John 20, 21-23. Acts of the Apostles 19, 18. First Letter to the Corinthians 5, 3-5. Second Letter to the Corinthians 2, 6-11. Letter to Corinthians 5, 18-20. Letter of James 5, 16. First Letter of John 1, 8-9.

Delve into Confession.

7. Anointing of the Sick

Scene of the anointing of the sick (formerly extreme anointing). The priest is accompanied by a young acolyte who assists him in his service.

The anointing of the sick is a sacrament of healing that consists of transmitting God's grace, comfort and strength to people who are seriously ill (not necessarily in danger of death). The minister is the priest. The sacrament is addressed to any baptized person who is ill, incapacitated or in danger of death.

Meaning of the anointing of the sick

The sacrament of the anointing of the sick conveys the presence of Christ. It provides strength and comfort in illness, gives peace of conscience on the deathbed, and grants forgiveness of guilt for eternal life.

The visible sign of the sacrament (matter) is the union of the Holy Oils, which consists of blessed olive oil that is applied on the subject making the sign of the cross.

The prayer that seals the sacrament of the anointing of the sick is: «For this holy Anointing (the oil is anointed with the sign of the cross) and his most benign mercy, may the Lord forgive you all that you have sinned by means of sight , the hearing, the smell, the taste and the word, the touch, the walk. So be it".

Biblical Foundations of the Anointing of the Sick

The foundations of this sacrament are recorded in the biblical passages according to which Jesus cared for the sick. For the Catholic Church, Jesus made the presence of God felt by comforting and healing the sick (see Mark 6,13; Luke 13, 12-13).

On the other hand, the Letter of Santiago instructs on assisting the sick to bring physical and / or spiritual healing, signs of divine grace (James 5, 14-15). Other references are: Acts of the Apostles 9, 17-18; First Letter to Corinthians 12, 9.

Classification of the sacraments

The seven sacraments are classified according to their function into sacraments of initiation, of service and mission, and of healing.

• Sacraments of initiation: They are those that introduce people to the Christian faith and reaffirm them in following the gospel. Baptism, Eucharist, and Confirmation are included.
• Sacraments of service and mission: They are those that express a vocation or a life project. Marriage and the priestly order are included.
• Sacraments of Healing: are those who convey the consoling presence of God in suffering and physical and spiritual healing. It includes reconciliation and the anointing of the sick.

See also: What is a sacrament?

To cite: Imaginario, Andrea (12/03/2021). "The 7 sacraments". On: Meanings.com. Available at: Consulted:

The ten plagues of Egypt (in order) are: turning water into blood; plague of frogs; mosquito infestation (lice or fleas); pest of horseflies (flies); cattle plague; ulcers; fiery hail; locust plague; darkness and death of the firstborn.

The plagues of Egypt were a series of misfortunes that, according to the Bible, fell on the Egyptian kingdom after refusing to liberate the Hebrews. The account is found in the Book of Exodus, chapters 7 through 12, in the Old Testament.

The meaning of the plagues of Egypt focuses on three fundamental aspects:

• First, the revelation of Yahweh as the only God, Lord and Judge. Divine intervention in favor of the liberation of the people of God discredits the polytheistic religion, undermines the bases of the political and economic power of the authorities and expresses the sense of divine justice and freedom.
• Second, the presentation of the worshipers of Yahweh as the chosen people. The story states that Yahweh listened with mercy to the laments of his people, favored them, protected them from the plagues and guided them on their way.
• Third, the presentation of misfortune as an instrument of moral correction in the face of the persistence of sin. It is a condemnation of sin committed consciously, deliberately, and stubbornly. Pharaoh's downfall lies in his pride and arrogance, which prevent him from listening to the prophet's warnings and amending his actions.

To understand in detail, let's look at a summary of the plagues of Egypt, their scientific explanation and the biblical meaning of each one separately.

1. Conversion of water into blood

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary of the conversion of water into blood

In the first interview with Pharaoh, Moses demanded that he free the Hebrews and let them go to the desert to worship God, just as he had ordered. Otherwise, God would turn the water into blood, but Pharaoh did not listen.

Then Aaron raised his staff and the waters of rivers, lakes, and vessels turned to blood. Seeing that the Egyptian priests could imitate him, Pharaoh downplayed the phenomenon.

The passage is narrated in the Book of Exodus 7, 14-25.

Scientific explanation

Some experts claim that the transformation of the Nile into blood was a pollution phenomenon that poisoned the water and gave it a reddish appearance. It is possible that this contamination was due to an excess of red algae, which would have released toxins, compromising the potability of the water.

Meaning of the conversion of water into blood

From the biblical point of view, the pollution of the waters symbolizes:

1. The first demonstration of the power of Yahweh in front of the Egyptian idols and the Pharaoh, who pretended to be divine. The natives believed the gods Osiris, Hatmehyt, Jnum, Hapi, Satet and Sotis protected the Nile.
2. A punishment for the massacre of the Hebrew children. Before the plagues, Pharaoh ordered the death of newborn Hebrew males, who were drowned in the Nile or dumped as crocodile food.
3. A blow to the political and economic power of Egypt that wounded the pride of Pharaoh. The Nile was the economic center and the main communication route of Egypt.

2. Plague of frogs

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

Moses and Aaron warned Pharaoh again that God would cause an invasion of frogs if he did not let them go. Before his second refusal, Aaron extended his hand over the waters and the frogs invaded the territory.

The Egyptian priests followed suit. Pharaoh asked the brothers to ward off the infestation, in exchange for allowing them to offer their sacrifices to Yahweh in the desert. The brothers begged Yahweh and he agreed, but Pharaoh did not keep his word.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 7, 25-29; 8, 1-11 (Catholic editions of the Bible) or in Exodus 8: 1-15 (Christian non-Catholic editions of the Bible).

Scientific explanation

Scientific studies describe a phenomenon called "frog rain." On some occasions, after storms or phenomena that alter the conditions of the aquatic habitat, the frogs come out en masse and disperse in search of food, destroy crops and generate other problems. This could have occurred as a consequence of the reddening of the Nile.

Meaning of the plague of frogs

The plague of frogs symbolizes the breakdown of the Egyptian religious normative system and, again, a blow to the kingdom's agricultural economy. The first is because frogs were considered sacred, so they could not be exterminated. Growing out of proportion, they were forced to break their religious laws.

3. Plague of mosquitoes, lice and fleas

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

The third plague was not preceded by a warning, but Yahweh ordered his execution when he saw the attitude of Pharaoh. Aaron struck the ground with his staff, and immediately a cloud of mosquitoes, fleas, and lice appeared everywhere.

The Egyptian priests tried to imitate the prodigy for the third time, but they did not succeed. It was then that they recognized the power of Yahweh. But Pharaoh did not want to listen to Moses or his own priests.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 8, 12-15 (Catholic editions of the Bible) or in Exodus 8: 16-19 (Christian non-Catholic editions of the Bible).

Scientific explanation

Experts believe that it was an infestation of mosquitoes, lice and fleas at the same time. These insects are attracted when there are not good hygienic conditions, which could be a consequence of the previous pests. For example, the accumulation of dead fish and other animals on the banks of rivers and lakes and other waste. These pests cause diseases that can kill people and animals.

Meaning of the plague of mosquitoes, lice and fleas

On the one hand, the plague of mosquitoes represents the first split between the political and religious power of Egypt, since Pharaoh refused to listen to his own priests, who had been persuaded of the power of Yahweh.

On the other hand, it discredits the Egyptian religion. First, because it compromised the priestly caste, unable to fulfill its functions because it was in a state of impurity. Second, because it affected the abundance protected by the idol Geb, and the control of wild animals (insects), protected by the infantile form of Horus.

4. Plague of horseflies

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

Back before Pharaoh, Moses and Aaron warned him that Yahweh would send a plague of horseflies (flies). This time there would be a difference: the Hebrews would not be touched to make him acknowledge that God blessed them.

When the plague broke out, Pharaoh agreed to allow the Hebrews to offer their sacrifices in the desert, provided they did not stray too far. Yahweh removed the plague and saved Egypt, but Pharaoh broke his promise again.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 8, 16-28 (Catholic editions of the Bible) or in Exodus 8: 20-32 (Christian non-Catholic editions of the Bible).

Scientific explanation

Some experts believe that the horsefly infestation was a reaction to variations in climate that occurred in Egypt. Flies and other similar insects are characterized by causing bites in animals and people that can cause serious diseases. In fact, horseflies have the ability to generate tumors.

Meaning of the horsefly plague

The plague of horseflies (flies) can be interpreted as a symbol of the corruption of sin and a reminder of human mortality. It can also be an affront against the deity Dua-Ur, in charge of purifying the face of Pharaoh. But above all, this passage is an exposition of Yahweh's solidarity with his people of worshipers.

5. Cattle plague

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

The brothers Moses and Aaron returned to Pharaoh's presence, warning him that if he did not free the Hebrews, all the cattle would suffer a plague. mortal.

In order to recognize the presence of Yahweh among the Hebrews, their livestock would remain healthy. All the cattle of the Egyptians suffered the consequences, but Pharaoh did not yield.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 9, 1-7.

Scientific explanation

Scientists suggest that the disease that decimated the animals may have been rinderpest. This disease is caused by a bacteria called Yersinia pestis, transmitted by insects such as flies. Five thousand years earlier, the disease would have reached Egypt from Asia through trade routes. Given the sanitary conditions since the beginning of the plagues, it may have found a conducive environment to spread.

Meaning of the plague of cattle plague

The cattle plague represents, on the one hand, another blow to the economic security of the Egyptian kingdom at that time. On the other hand, it marks the fall of Hathor, a goddess who is represented as a cow with a sun disk and who is associated with renewal and fertility.

6. Ulcers

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

God commanded Moses and Aaron to appear before Pharaoh again, take a handful of soot from the furnaces and throw it into the air. This dust spread through the air and caused ulcers on all the natives, including the Egyptian priests, who could not face the brothers. However, Pharaoh did not agree.

The passage is narrated in the Book of Exodus 9, 8-12.

Scientific explanation

For this plague there are two theories or explanations. The first argues that skin ulcers were caused by toxic gases released by decaying livestock.

The second maintains that it was a proliferation of smallpox, caused by a bacterium called Staphylococcus aureus. Indeed, there is evidence that there was an outbreak of smallpox in Egypt more than three thousand years ago. Such evidence is found in some marks found on the mummy of Pharaoh Ramses V and other mummies of the time.

Meaning of the plague of ulcers

The ulcers can be interpreted as a punishment to the Egyptians for prohibiting rest to the Hebrews (including the right to scratch). The Egyptians also forced them to prepare their bath with hot water, which was very laborious. By contracting the ulcers, the Egyptians suffered irreparable itching and were unable to take a bath.

7. Rain of Fiery Hail

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

In a new interview with Pharaoh, Aaron and Moses warned him that a thunderstorm with fiery hail would strike Egypt. If they wanted to save themselves, they had to take shelter indoors, but not everyone believed. Thus the flax and barley were destroyed, but the wheat and spelled were saved because they had not flowered.

Pharaoh called the brothers and acknowledged their sin. They interceded for him and Yahweh stopped the storm. However, Pharaoh held the Israelites captive.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 9, 13-35.

Scientific explanation

Studies seem to indicate that near the island of Crete, located in the Aegean Sea, there was an eruption of the Santorini volcano about 3,500 years ago. The volcanic ash is likely to have been washed into the Egypt region. There, when mixed with the electrical storms of the place, it could have become igneous hail, formed of ice and volcanic matter.

Meaning of the fiery hail plague

In this episode, the warning was not directed only to Pharaoh but to everyone who wanted to be saved. Hence, it represents the extension of Yahweh's mercy to the Gentiles (not Hebrews). It is not surprising that the symbol of punishment is the union of ice and fire, which symbolizes the union of opposites.

8. Plague of locusts

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

Moses and Aaron announced to Pharaoh a plague of locusts that would destroy what the hail did not destroy. Pharaoh's servants begged him to yield, but the monarch did not. The next day, the locusts consumed all the vegetation in their path.

Pharaoh asked forgiveness for his sin and God dumped the locusts into the Red Sea. So the monarch offered Moses to let the men go alone, but this was inadmissible for them, and they could not leave.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 10, 1-20.

Scientific explanation

Experts point out that the locust plague was a consequence of the Santorini volcano eruption. The expulsion of volcanic ash would have caused a series of climatic changes that favored the phenomenon. Such conditions would be specifically the excess of rain and a great concentration of humidity, all of which would favor the uncontrolled reproduction of these insects.

Meaning of the plague of locusts

The plague of locusts represents the final economic breakdown of the pharaoh and the division with his own people, since they asked him to let the Hebrews go. For this reason, it was only after this plague that Pharaoh recognized his faults and wanted to negotiate an alternative by letting the men go. But for the Hebrews, liberation would be for everyone, or it would not be.

9. Darkness

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

God commanded Moses to extend his hand so that darkness would cover the Egyptian sky for three days. During that time, no one could be seen. Only the houses of the Hebrews had lighting.

Pharaoh allowed Moses to leave with their families, but without their livestock. But he refused. So Pharaoh did not let them out. Then he expelled Moses and threatened to kill him if he dared to return.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 10, 20-29.

Scientific explanation

The phenomenon of darkness over Egypt has not yet had a definitive answer. The most accepted thesis maintains that it could have been a solar eclipse, since there is documentation on a phenomenon of this type that occurred around 1223 BC.

Meaning of the plague of darkness

Symbolically, the plague of darkness represents the blindness of Pharaoh (and, by extension, of the sinner), who refuses to recognize the voice of God. Let us also remember that the Egyptians worshiped the Sun god, so that darkness also symbolizes the fall of the last Egyptian idol, from the biblical perspective.

10. Death of the firstborn of Egypt

Bible Illustration by Sweet Media

Summary

The Lord warned Moses that he would put the firstborn of Egypt to death. To protect themselves from the passage of death, the Hebrews had to mark the lintel of their door with the blood of a lamb sacrificed in honor of Yahweh. That night the Hebrews would celebrate the first Passover, that is, the passing of the Lord.

Death passed through the houses of Egypt and also claimed the life of Pharaoh's firstborn. In desperation, he drove out the Hebrews with all their possessions. They immediately marched into the desert, not without first receiving gold and silver objects from the Egyptians as God had predicted.

The passage is narrated in the book of Exodus 11, 1-10; Exodus 12, 29-36.

Scientific explanation

There are two hypotheses to explain the death of the firstborn. Both link the scientific with the social and labor organization of Ancient Egypt.

The first explanation holds that the excess red algae in the Nile released large concentrations of lethal mycotoxins. The wheat fields would have absorbed the water contaminated with the mycotoxins. However, the firstborn were often the first to gather the grain of the crops, so they were more likely to be poisoned.

The second explanation proposes the possibility that there was a replica of the volcanic eruption. This would have raised a cloud of carbon dioxide from the ground, which can cause death. As the firstborn had the privilege of sleeping on the ground floor, they would have been the first to inhale the deadly gas.

Meaning of the death of the firstborn

In ancient times, the first-born son was the most valued for being the successor of the family line. Therefore, this passage represents the breaking point of the Pharaoh, unable to measure the consequences of his actions. Pharaoh himself would have written his fate in killing the firstborn Hebrews, never having given them the chance of salvation.

The passage is also part of the symbolism of sacrificial rituals. For Christians, a foreshadowing of the death of Christ can be seen: just as liberation would come to the Hebrews through the death of Pharaoh's firstborn, salvation would come to the world through the sacrifice of Jesus.

Background and context of the plagues of Egypt

According to the book of Exodus, the Hebrews lived in Egypt since the time of the patriarch Jacob and his son, Joseph. But at the death of both, Pharaoh made them slaves for fear of their prosperity and large numbers, and ordered the murder of newborn males. Moses was rescued by Pharaoh's daughter, who raised him as her own.

As an adult, Moses saw how an Egyptian mistreated a slave and murdered him. Discovered, he fled to Midian, took a wife and became a shepherd of flocks. During that period, God commissioned him to free the people and lead them to the promised land, with the help of his brother, Aaron.

The brothers met repeatedly with Pharaoh to communicate the divine message, but he did not want to listen. Moses and Aaron warned him that, if he persisted in his refusal, Yahweh would send various plagues on Egypt to persuade him. Only after the tenth (the death of the firstborn) did Pharaoh agree.

After these events, the Hebrews celebrated the first Passover, left Egypt and began their pilgrimage through the desert in search of the Promised Land.

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What is Amen:

Amen it means 'So be it','that's how it is'. In some contexts it also means 'in truth' or 'certainly'. It is used as a confirmation and affirmation formula in many religions such as Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. This word is one of the most frequent liturgical acclamations, and is generally used as a formula to conclude prayers.

Origin of the word 'amen'

This word comes from the Hebrew אמן ('indeed', 'certainly') pronounced āmēn. The root of this word indicates firmness and security, and in Hebrew it coincides with the root of the word 'faith'. It is also said that in turn it can come from Semitic languages ​​such as Aramaic. Later, he derived the Greek ἀμήν and from there to latin Amen. Originally, it was used in Judaism, later its use spread to other religions such as Christianity and Islam.

Amen in Christianity

In Christianity it is used in a generalized way as a formula to conclude sentences. In the New Testament, Jesus Christ is presented using this word twice ('Amen, amen') at the beginning of some of his speeches and is usually translated as 'Truly, truly'. For example in 'Truly, truly I tell you: the who believes in me ... ' (Jn 14:12). It also appears in the Book of Revelation when Jesus Christ is called 'the Amen': 'Here is the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of God's creation ... ' (Rev 3:14).

Amen in Judaism

In the Hebrew Bible this word appears several times. Used at the beginning or end of a sentence. It is normally used in response to a blessing and as a way of expressing affirmation before a statement. In the Talmud it is indicated that the word 'amen' is an acronym that could be translated as 'God, King who can be trusted'.

Amen in Islam

In Islam this word is used (آمين, in Arabic) at the end of a sentence with the meaning of 'so be it' or 'so it is' as a way to express confirmation and affirmation.

Other uses of the word 'amen'

In addition to being used as a religious formula, the word 'amen' is used in Spanish in other contexts. In colloquial language, it appears in several expressions:

• 'Say amen to everything'. It means agreeing to feel everything. In this case, the word 'amen' can be substituted for 'yes'.
• 'In a jiffy' or 'in a saying amen'. It means in a short time. In the first case, jiffy is formed from the last words used in the Latin formula for crossing oneself 'In nomine Patris, et Filii, et Spiritus Sancti. Amen'. It is equivalent to other expressions such as 'in a second' or 'in a moment'.
• 'Reach the amenes'. In this case, the word 'amen' used in the plural. It means to arrive when something is finishing.

The word 'amen' is also used together with the preposition 'de' meaning 'in addition to'. For example: 'Amen to the reports, you have to do the invoices'. This use would be typical of formal language.

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What is Aura:

A aura it's a breath, breath or puff. It can also refer to favor or acceptance of something. In poetic language it refers to a gentle and serene wind. In medicine, the aura is a subjective sensation announcing a crisis of a disease. In parapsychology, it alludes to a certain luminous halo that surrounds people.

The word, as such, comes from Latin aura, and this in turn from the Greek αὔρα (aúra), derived from ἄειν (áein), which means 'to blow'.

Aura in Medicine

In Medicine, the aura is called sensation or phenomenon that announces or precedes the onset of crisis in some diseasessuch as epilepsy or asthma. It is manifested by a set of psychic, physical or motor sensations. In migraine sufferers, for example, it appears just before the headache in the form of bright spots, flashing lights, flashes, or blurred vision.

Aura in art

In art, the concept of aura refers to the set of features that make a work of art unique and original. As such, the aura encompasses certain intangible aspects of the work of art, such as its uniqueness and authenticity, as well as how it is situated in its tradition and time, and how it is valued accordingly. The concept was coined by the German critic Walter benjamin in his essay The work of art at the time of its technical reproducibility (1936).

Aura in parapsychology

For the field of parapsychology and esotericism, the aura is a kind of light radiation that surrounds people or objects, and to which various meanings are attributed depending on its color.

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What is Holy War:

What Holy war all that is designated war that is waged for religious reasons against the enemies of a faith. As such, they are a extreme device used by fundamentalists of any religion to justify the use of violence.

Between the motivations of the holy war We can mention the idea of ​​protecting a religion, its dogmas and its sacred places from those who are considered, by various circumstances, a threat. Likewise, the holy war is fought with the idea of ​​receiving a spiritual reward.

Holy wars are born from discords and differences between religions and peoples, between certain doctrines and values. They are the product of disrespect and intolerance towards the other who thinks or has different beliefs.

However, holy wars, like all warfare, also respond to different political and economic interests. In fact, at certain times in history, holy wars have been used for the expansion of a religion.

Holy war and jihad

The concept of holy war is commonly confused with that of jihad, although the latter is a much broader term within Islamic doctrine. Jihad can be translated into Spanish as 'effort', and refers to the sacred duty to act for Allah and according to the doctrine of Muhammad. Hence, it is rather a spiritual struggle to improve the life of Allah's people, which does not rule out defense against tyranny and external threats. In this sense, jihad, more than war, would refer to resistance against the aggressions of the enemies of the faith.

In recent times, however, the concept of jihad has been invoked again in reference to the struggles carried out by certain Islamic extremist organizations against those they consider enemies of Islam, mainly the Western powers (United States, France, United Kingdom , etc.). With this, they have tried to justify terrorist acts and crimes in a supposed defense of the doctrine of Muhammad.

See also Jihad.

Holy war in Islamism

Within Islam, the holy war coincides with the period of expansion of Islam from the Arabian Peninsula, which spread from the Middle East to North Africa and most of the Iberian Peninsula, between the 7th and 15th centuries. As such, it is a historical process that begins in the year 622, with the consolidation of Muhammad's power that would lead to the taking of Mecca and successive wars to propagate Islamic doctrine. This expansion would continue during the following centuries. These wars were carried out against non-Muslim peoples, such as Arabs, Jews, and Christians.

Holy war in Christianity

The holy war also had its expression in Christianity during the Middle Ages with the crusades. The crusades consisted of military expeditions organized by the Church and by some kings, in order to recover the holy lands (especially Jerusalem) from Muslim rule. They took place between the years 1095 and 1291. Other military campaigns, such as the Spanish reconquest, also against the Muslims, or the wars of religion in France against the Protestants, also came to take the name of holy war.

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What is Goddess Isis:

The goddess Isis is an Egyptian goddess, sister and wife of Osiris. Represents the mother, queen and goddess of all gods.

Isis is the Greek name for the Egyptian goddess Ast, throne in Spanish, and is represented as a woman with a throne on her head. Isis is mentioned for the first time in writings dating back to 2,300 BC in the 5th dynasty of the Old Kingdom of Egypt.

Isis is also worshiped as the great magician, the queen of the afterlife, and the star goddess. Collect all the attributes of the other goddesses of Egypt. It was believed that the star Sirius o Sotis, the brightest star in the constellation Orion, was the home in the sky of the goddess Isis.

The first Christians went to assimilate the cult of Isis to the Virgin Mary, giving her the maternal and protective facet, as well as the famous iconography of the Virgin Mary with the baby Jesus in her arms.

She was the only deity in Egypt who was worshiped even in the Roman Empire before her worship was banned in 535 AD.

Isis and her attributes

The goddess Isis contains all the attributes of the other goddesses of Egypt. It is one of the nine goddesses that make up the Aenead, that is, the nine divinities worshiped and associated with the creation myths in Heliopolis (capital of nome XIII of Lower Egypt).

The goddess Isis is referred to as 'the great magician' for the feat of resurrecting her brother and husband Osiris, killed by his brother Seth, and then procreate with him and give birth to Horus.

You may also be interested in reading about Osiris.

Isis is called 'the great magician'because it is also said that he created the first cobra with his magic. From this first cobra, Isis extracts the poison that will force Ra, the god of gods, to reveal his true name and thus give Isis power over Ra. Ra accepting his 'defeat' prepares a secret cult to give Isis the power to cure the diseases of the gods.

It is also considered 'the goddess of the afterlife'for being the wife of Osiris and for resuscitating him after his death and being born as the god of resurrection symbolizing fertility and the floods of the Nile River.

It is also known as'the divine mother'for her protective and maternal quality shown to her son Horus and to all other beings.

Isis also personifies the Moon, since the Moon was considered one of the eyes of her husband Osiris and because it prevented the floods in the Nile.

See also the eye of Horus.

Isis representations

Isis, in her earliest representations, figures with a throne-shaped crown as the meaning of her original Egyptian name Ast.

Isis is sometimes represented with a solar disk because of her relationship as Ra's daughter and because of her power over him as she is the only one who knows her name.

The horns given to Isis represent the cow and is a fusion with Hathor, the wife of Horus. The cow symbolizes fertility.

Later, Isis would be represented with wings, a symbol of divinity.

The goddess Isis has also become a very popular tattoo, since, in addition to paying tribute to women in all their splendor, it also symbolizes strength and projects the power of a goddess serving both as a talisman to give strength and as a talisman. of protection.

To cite: Chen, Caterina (06/28/2019). "Goddess Isis". On: Meanings.com. Available at: Consulted:

What is Islamism:

Islamism, different from the religion of Islam, refers to the act of wanting to impose dogmas and moral precepts of the Islamic religion to govern.

Differences between Islam, Islam and Muslim

Islamism are radical political movements or political philosophy, since, despite defending the Islamic religion, it violates one of the principles of Islam that prohibits any imposition on religion.

Islam is the religion that Muslims preach. Believers of the Islamic religion or Islam are called Muslims. Islamism, on the other hand, is a radical movement of a specific and interpretive current of Islam, therefore not all Muslims are Islamists but they all follow the Islamic religion.

The concept of Islamism began to be used and popularized after the United States blamed Islamist terrorist groups for the attacks on the "World Trade Center" on September 11, 2001.

With respect to Jihad or fight for Allah's sake

The most common way to justify Islamism is through the concept of Jihad or Jihad described in the Qur'an, a holy book with the revelations of its god Allah or Allah.

The Jihad it is divided into major and minor. The Jihad mayor is described as fighting for the cause of Allah. This is an inner struggle and involves an inner spiritual effort to follow the path of Allah.

The Jihad The least is to preach Islam and defend it from its attacks. This is where the idea of ​​him was born. Jihad as fight or war and is an interpretation of specific currents.

Characteristics of Islam

Islam is a revealed monotheistic religion that informs and configures a cultural and civilizing system. Derived from the Arabic root slm which means peace, purity, submission, salvation and obedience to God.

Islam, Christianity and Judaism represent the 3 current monotheistic religions that believe in the existence of only one God.

The 5 fundamental pillars in Islam are:

1. The profession of faith: declaring faith in the unity of Allah and that Muhammad or Muhammad he is his messenger.
2. As-salah: are the 5 prayers of the day divided into Fayr or the dawn, Ad-duhr or noon, Asr or in the afternoon, Mafrib or dusk and Isha or at night.
3. Fasting in the month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the lunar calendar).
4. The zakát or azaque, translated into Spanish as alms, it implies sharing resources with those in need.
5. The major pilgrimage: pilgrimage at least once in your life to the sacred Ka'ba or Mecca.

Other characteristics of the mainstream of Islam are:

• The Quran is a divine guide to rule the lives of its so-called Muslim believers. Muslims regard the Qur'an as the word of Allah revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the Archangel Gabriel (Jibrail),
• The temples of Islam are called mosques,
• They are based on the lunar calendar calling it Islamic or Muslim calendar. This calendar begins in the year 622 when Muhammad "emigrates" together with the Muslims from Mecca to La Medina (Hegira),
• Friday is the Muslim congregation day,
• The 3 types of traditional garments worn by women since Christianity and Judaism are: the Hijab or Islamic veil, which is a scarf that covers the hair; the Niqab, what it only leaves the eyes uncovered; and the Burka or Afghan Burka, that covers both the face and the body.

If you want to go deeper into the meaning of Islam, click here.

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What is the meaning of tattoos?

The meaning of tattoos it is generally associated with a universal symbology. However, this can vary depending on multiple factors: the local or regional meaning of the chosen design (not all symbols are universal, for example), the history or interpretation of the design for the person who will be wearing the tattoo, etc.

Tattoos are designs for the skin that have a very ancient origin, since there are records of their use in the first civilizations, where the skin was marked permanently or temporarily with symbols of strength, power and magic.

At that time, these designs had specific objectives, such as protection tattoos, initiation tattoos in some social or spiritual rite, etc. Today, the use and meaning of tattoos has diversified and they can incorporate almost any sign, figure or shape.

Meaning of small tattoos

The meaning of small tattoos, also called minimalist tattoos, is closely associated with discretion and introversion.

It is generally worn by people who, due to their profession or their personality, do not want to expose themselves to the eyes of others, but do want to wear a tattoo that is significant.

In this sense, the limit for a small tattoo is the talent of the tattoo artist, since almost any simple design can be reduced to its minimum expression.

Symbol tattoos and their meaning

Symbols are iconographic representations of universal concepts such as love, freedom, justice, or hope. All tattoos can be considered symbols, but there are some designs that, due to the associated symbols, are used as protection tattoos.

These are some symbols and their meaning

Dreamcatcher: drives away bad energies

Dreamcatchers are symbols of the native peoples of North America. They are used as protective objects that are usually hung on the doors or on the cribs of children to scare away evil spirits that cause nightmares.

See also Dreamcatcher.

Eye of Horus: protection and enlightenment

The Eye of Horus, also called the Eye of Ra, is an Egyptian amulet of protection. It also represents the six senses that the Egyptians believed in: vision, smell, thought, hearing, and touch. There are also people who associate the eye of Horus with the third eye, which can see beyond what is visible.

See also Eye of Horus.

Mandala: life cycles

Mandalas are designs, generally circular, made of repetitive designs. Mandalas represent the repetitive and fractal nature of things. They also reflect spirituality, as the designs induce states of meditation used in many Eastern religions.

See also Mandala.

Semicolon: force to continue

The semicolon is a punctuation mark that has become a symbol against depression. In this sense, it reminds the person that despite difficult situations, you can always put a period and add a comma to continue creating new life experiences.

Arrows: direction and direction

The arrows indicate a direction and symbolize a north or a way to follow. They remind the person of a goal or about the importance of not getting lost on the road of life.

Heart: life and love

The heart symbolizes emotions, love and friendship. That is why it is usually one of the most chosen designs by couples or best friends.

See also Heart.

Yin yang: balance

The Yin Yang It is a symbol of Chinese origin that is universally associated with the existence of two antagonistic but complementary forces at the same time: feminine and masculine, heaven and earth, negative and positive, etc.

The yin yang reminds us that every element has its opposite, and that both are essential to maintain universal balance.

See also Yin yang.

Meaning of flower tattoos

Since ancient times, flowers have been associated with different meanings. These are some of the most commonly used flower tattoo meanings.

Sunflowers - happiness and good luck

Sunflowers are characterized by always moving with their face towards the sun. For this reason they represent the search for happiness and joy, as well as liveliness, wealth and good luck.

Lotus flower: spiritual elevation

The lotus flower symbolizes spiritual elevation and purity. The way the lotus flower rises to the surface of the water to bloom immaculately, has become one of the most used symbols in Buddhism to represent the spiritual path.

See also: The incredible meaning of the 15 most beautiful flowers in the world.

Meaning of animal tattoos

In many cultures, animals are considered an expression of divinity. And this is transferred to the world of tattoos, where we can find representations of real or mythological animals loaded with symbolism.

Bees: ecological awareness

Bees symbolize the balance of nature. Especially today, where the environment is so affected by the actions of human beings, the bee has become a symbol of conscience towards the protection of ecosystems in danger.

Swallows: eternal love

Swallows are birds that always return to the same nest to lay their eggs during the summer. For this reason, they symbolize fidelity, love, family and home.

Feathers: freedom

Ancient civilizations used the feathers of animals to decorate their bodies and clothes due to the diversity of their shapes and colors, but they also imitated them on their skin because they represent the freedom that birds have to fly.

Snake or dragon: transformation and regeneration

The serpent and the dragon symbolize strength in Eastern mythology. The dragon usually joins the earthly force with the heavenly one, also symbolizing health due to its mediation with the divine.

The serpent associates the earthly with the underworld, representing strength and power of transformation. On the other hand, the feathered serpent is a god that represents transformation and the power of creation.

Also, the snake or dragon that bites its own tail is called ouroboros, and it symbolizes the cyclical nature of things. It is one of the most popular tattoos and serves as a talisman of eternity and regeneration.

See also Ouroboros or Dragon.

Fish Koi: strength and perseverance

The fish koi Or the oriental carp is a very popular tattoo for its striking design and for symbolizing persistence and strength. It is a fish that is able to resist extreme conditions. In addition, according to Chinese and Japanese mythology, this fish swam throughout the Yellow River until it became a dragon. It is usually tattooed together with lotus flowers or cherry blossoms.

To cite: Chen, Caterina (01/30/2020). "Meaning of tattoos". On: Meanings.com. Available at: Consulted:

What is Lucifer:

Lucifer literally means 'the one who carries the light'. This word is formed from the Latin words lux, which means 'light', and fero, which means 'carry'.

In the old testament is the name given to the most beautiful and intelligent angel of the heavenly court before rebelling against God and become a fallen angel.

In another less widely used but older sense, the word lucifer is synonymous with the term bright Star, referring to the first flash of the planet Venus at dawn.

Lucifer in the Judeo-Christian culture

Normally, the current use of the word corresponds to the name of the angel Lucifer, who is considered the prince of the rebel angels.

According to the Old Testament accounts, Lucifer was a beautiful, brilliant and intelligent angel who, overcome by pride, decided to compete against God and become like him, which was the cause of his fall and degradation.

In the Christian interpretation, from that moment on Lucifer became Satan, a word that means 'adversary'. However, in Judaism Lucifer and Satan are considered to be two different entities.

Lucifer in Greco-Roman mythology

In Greco-Roman mythology, Lucifer corresponds to the god Phosphorus, Heosphorus or Eosphorus, which is also translated as 'light of dawn'. Sometimes this god is usually identified with his brother Héspero, 'evening light', because both are personifications of the planet Venus.

This duality of names comes from the fact that in the past the morning stars and the sunset were attributed to two different celestial bodies. When the ancients discovered that both stars were produced by the same planet, the names began to be used almost interchangeably.

Lucifer in voodoo

The figure of Lucifer as a fallen angel was also assimilated in the syncretic pantheon of religion voodoo. Thus, it joins another of the representative images of the cultural intersection that occurred in Latin America.

How to cite: Imaginario, Andrea (05/23/2019). "Lucifer". On: Meanings.com. Available at: Consulted:

What is a Swastika:

A swastika It is an image in the shape of a cross with folded arms. The swastika has been used throughout history, in different places, appearing in various contexts and with very different meanings. In heraldry it is also called swastika, crampon cross and tetraskel.

Two types of swastikas are usually distinguished: clockwise (卐) when rotating clockwise (the upper arm bent to the right) and counter-clockwise (卍) when rotating (upper arm bent to the left).

There are multiple variants of the swastika in terms of shape and colors. This symbol has also been related to other icons such as the triskel.

Origin and meaning of the swastika

The word 'swastika' comes from the word suasti, (well-being, in Sanskrit). In turn, it is composed of the adverb its ('good', 'very') and asti (third person singular of the verb asti ('that exist'). It can be translated as 'good fortune' or 'well being'.

In principle the swastika was used as a symbol among Hindus. It is mentioned for the first time in the sacred scriptures of Hunduism (The Vedas), although it is also used, mainly in India and Indonesia, in other religions such as Buddhism, Yainism and Odinism.

There are anthropological theses to explain the origin of this symbol. There is also an astronomical hypothesis since it is thought that its peculiar shape could be due to some astronomical phenomenon such as a rotating comet or perhaps it represented the movement of the sun in the sky.

The Nazi swastika

The swastika cross was used as symbol from Adolf Hitler's German National Socialist Workers' Party and Nazism, surely inspired by the Thule Society. It was identified with a symbol of the ancestors of the Aryan race. For Hitler the swastika as he symbolized 'the Aryan man's struggle for victory'.

For the creation of the Nazi swastika, the colors white, black and red were used, the same as the flag of the German Empire and it is rotated 45 °

In the West the swastika is primarily associated with Nazism. In fact, in many countries, including Germany, the public display of the Nazi swastika and other similar symbols is prohibited.

The forest swastika

It is known as 'the forest swastika ' to a design formed in a pine forest with larch trees in Zernikow, Germany. It was originally commissioned by a German businessman as a birthday present to Adolf Hitler during the Nazi era. The image was only visible from the sky. Today, part of the swastika still remains.

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