Catechism

/ˈkætəˌkɪzəm/ noun

Definition

A summary of religious beliefs presented as questions and answers, used to teach religion, or any similar method of instruction.

Etymology

From Greek 'katechismos' (oral instruction), from 'katechein' (to teach by word of mouth)—'kata-' (down) plus 'echein' (to sound or resound).

Kelly Says

The word's Greek root literally means 'to resound down from'—as in someone standing above speaking down to others—which perfectly captures the hierarchical teaching method of religious instruction!

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