Breviary meaning

A breviary is a prayerbook containing the daily prayers prescribed for monks and priests.


Breviary definitions

Word backwards yraiverb
Part of speech The part of speech of the word "breviary" is a noun.
Syllabic division brev-i-ar-y
Plural The plural of the word "breviary" is "breviaries."
Total letters 8
Vogais (3) e,i,a
Consonants (4) b,r,v,y

A breviary is a liturgical book used in the Christian tradition for praying the Liturgy of the Hours. This prayer book contains the daily prayers, psalms, readings, and hymns that make up the official prayer of the Church.

Breviaries are used by clergy, religious, and laypeople who wish to participate in the daily prayer life of the Church. The prayers are divided into different "hours," such as Morning Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Night Prayer, which are to be prayed at specific times throughout the day.

History of the Breviary

The breviary has a long history, dating back to the early centuries of the Church. Over time, the prayers were compiled and organized into a single book for ease of use. Different versions of the breviary exist, depending on the liturgical tradition of the Church.

Components of a Breviary

Typically, a breviary will contain the Psalms, Scripture readings, prayers, and hymns for each of the Hours. The texts may vary depending on the liturgical season or feast day being celebrated. Some breviaries also include additional prayers or devotions.

Benefits of Using a Breviary

Praying the Liturgy of the Hours with a breviary allows individuals to sanctify their day, aligning it with the Church's prayer. It provides a structure for prayer and helps to cultivate a sense of community with other Catholics around the world who are also praying the same prayers.

Breviaries come in various formats today, from traditional printed books to digital versions available on smartphones or tablets. This accessibility makes it easier for people to incorporate the daily prayer of the Church into their lives, no matter where they are.

In conclusion, the breviary is a valuable tool for deepening one's prayer life and spiritual connection to the Church. By praying the Liturgy of the Hours regularly, individuals can join in the Church's continuous offering of praise and thanksgiving to God.


Breviary Examples

  1. The priest read from the breviary during the morning prayer service.
  2. She found comfort in reciting the breviary before bed each night.
  3. The monastery's breviary contained prayers for every day of the year.
  4. He studied the breviary to deepen his understanding of the liturgy.
  5. The nuns gathered in the chapel to chant from the breviary together.
  6. The breviary was passed down through generations in the family.
  7. The breviary provided guidance on how to structure daily prayer.
  8. She kept a breviary in her bedside table for easy access each morning.
  9. During Lent, he committed to reading the entire breviary each day.
  10. The priest's breviary was worn from years of constant use.


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  • Updated 17/06/2024 - 01:47:01