Something or someone that one vehemently dislikes; a formal curse by a pope or church council.
From Greek 'anathema' meaning 'something set up or dedicated,' from 'anatithenai' (to set up). Originally meant offerings dedicated to gods, but in Christian usage became associated with things cursed or excommunicated.
Think of it as the ultimate 'anti-theme' — something so opposed to your core beliefs it might as well be cursed! The word flipped from meaning 'dedicated to gods' to 'cursed by God,' showing how context completely transforms meaning.
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