Dictionary
A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
INTERPRETATION
Giving the meaning or explanation of something, as of a doctrine, law, or statement of purpose. It is authentic when given by the Church's teaching authority and calls for obedient acceptance by the faithful; doctrinal when the Church exercises her magisterial right to teach the way of salvation; broad when the explanation of a law favors liberty; and narrow when the explanation limits human freedom.
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.
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