Glossolalia

/ˌɡlɒsəʊˈleɪliə/ noun

Definition

The phenomenon of speaking in languages one doesn't know, believed by some to be a spiritual gift; rapid, often meaningless speech sounds.

Etymology

From Greek 'glossa' (tongue) + 'lalia' (speech, babbling). The term entered English through New Testament Greek, describing early Christian religious practice.

Kelly Says

Glossolalia appears in ancient Greek texts, medieval mysticism, and modern Pentecostal Christianity—neuroscientists now study it as a real neurological state different from ordinary speech, fascinating both to believers and skeptics.

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