early christian meals of love and fellowship nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue 'early christian meals of love and fellowship nyt crossword'? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your understanding of the clue.
Solutions for "early christian meals of love and fellowship nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
AGAPE: Refers to the communal meals shared by early Christians, emphasizing brotherly love and charity.
9 Letters
LOVEFEAST: Another term for the agape feast, signifying a communal meal expressing Christian fellowship and love among believers.
More About "early christian meals of love and fellowship nyt crossword"
The concept of "early Christian meals of love and fellowship" points directly to the practices of the first believers, primarily the 'agape feast' or 'love feast'. These communal meals were central to the life of the early church, going beyond simple sustenance to embody the core values of their faith: unity, charity, and brotherly love (agape). Often held in private homes, these gatherings fostered deep bonds among congregants, allowing them to share resources, pray together, and reaffirm their commitment to the teachings of Jesus Christ.
These meals served multiple purposes. They were an expression of Christian charity, where the wealthy shared with the poor, ensuring no one in the community went without. They also reinforced the radical egalitarianism of early Christianity, as social hierarchies were often temporarily set aside during these gatherings. Furthermore, the agape feasts frequently preceded or were integrated with the celebration of the Eucharist (Holy Communion), highlighting the close connection between physical fellowship and spiritual communion.
Over time, the practice of the agape feast evolved and, in some traditions, diminished, partly due to issues like abuse (as mentioned in New Testament letters) and the eventual formalization of church services. However, their historical significance remains profound, offering a glimpse into the lived experience of early Christian communities and their commitment to embodying selfless love and profound fellowship.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: For clues like "early Christian meals," think about the historical period, the specific religious context, and common terms or concepts associated with that era or belief system.
- Look for Synonyms and Related Concepts: Even if you don't know the exact answer, consider synonyms for "love" (agape) or "meals" (feast) in a religious or historical context. Sometimes, a lesser-known synonym is the intended answer.
- Check Letter Counts Carefully: If you have an answer in mind but it doesn't fit the number of boxes, consider alternative terms or spellings that might match. This page provides options by letter count to assist with this.
- Utilize Cross-References: Don't forget to use the intersecting words from other clues. Even a few confirmed letters can significantly narrow down the possibilities for a difficult clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an 'Agape' in Christianity?
In Christianity, 'Agape' (pronounced ah-GAH-pay) refers to a specific type of unconditional, self-sacrificing love, distinct from erotic or familial love. In early Christian contexts, it also referred to communal meals or 'love feasts' shared by believers as an expression of this love, fostering fellowship and support within the community.
Why were 'love feasts' significant to early Christians?
The 'love feasts' (agape meals) were profoundly significant to early Christians as they embodied the principles of communal unity, charity, and mutual support central to their faith. They served as opportunities for fellowship, sharing resources with the needy, and often included religious observances, reinforcing the bonds among believers and expressing their shared commitment to the teachings of Christ.
How can historical or religious clues be tackled in crosswords?
To solve historical or religious crossword clues, consider the specific era or tradition indicated (e.g., 'early Christian'). Think of key figures, rituals, terms, or events associated with that context. Rely on common abbreviations, Latin or Greek roots for religious terms, and general knowledge of world history and major religions. Sometimes, the 'NYT' tag suggests a slightly more academic or culturally specific term. Cross-referencing with intersecting words is also crucial.