Book of hours meaning

A book of hours is a medieval Christian devotional book containing prayers, psalms, and readings for different times of the day.


Book of hours definitions

Word backwards koob fo sruoh
Part of speech Noun
Syllabic division book of hours: book of hours
Plural The plural of the term "book of hours" is "books of hours."
Total letters 11
Vogais (2) o,u
Consonants (6) b,k,f,h,r,s

A book of hours is a type of devotional book popular in the Middle Ages. It contains a collection of prayers, psalms, and readings to be recited at different hours of the day, hence the name "book of hours."

Medieval Europe saw the rise of the book of hours as a way for the laity to participate in daily prayer like monks and nuns. These books were often beautifully illuminated with intricate designs and illustrations, making them works of art in addition to religious texts.

Contents

The contents of a book of hours typically included prayers to be recited at different hours of the day, such as morning, noon, and evening prayers. They also often included the Hours of the Virgin Mary, a series of prayers dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Personalized

One of the unique features of a book of hours is that it could be personalized for the owner. Wealthy patrons would commission scribes and artists to create custom books of hours with their own coats of arms, family portraits, and personalized prayers.

Historical Significance

Book of hours provide valuable insights into the religious practices and beliefs of medieval society. They also showcase the skill and artistry of medieval scribes and illuminators, with some of the most famous examples held in museums and collections around the world.

Book of hours continue to be studied by scholars and admired by art enthusiasts for their historical and artistic value. They offer a glimpse into the spiritual life of medieval Christians and the rich tradition of manuscript illumination.


Book of hours Examples

  1. She kept her book of hours by her bedside for nightly prayers.
  2. The intricate illustrations in the book of hours were breathtaking.
  3. During the Middle Ages, book of hours were popular among the aristocracy.
  4. The book of hours served as a daily devotional for many Christians.
  5. Visitors to the museum were fascinated by the display of a medieval book of hours.
  6. I inherited my grandmother's beautiful illuminated book of hours.
  7. The book of hours was passed down through generations in the family.
  8. Many scholars study the historical significance of the book of hours.
  9. The book of hours provides a glimpse into medieval religious practices.
  10. The monk spent hours each day in prayer with his book of hours.


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  • Updated 12/06/2024 - 12:44:05