Dictionary

A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.

Or browse the dictionary by selecting a letter!
A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

LAMED VAV

Talmudic tradition that the world must contain at least thirty-six (lamed vav) righteous people for God to keep mankind in existence. They are generally humble souls, unknown for their holiness except by God.

All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.

Click here to advertise on CatholicCulture.org

Donate to Support this Site: Your contribution will be put to good work.

Shop Amazon to Raise Money for Catholic Culture

» Year of Faith - Overview & Resources

» Visit the Easter Workshop

» Visit the Ordinary Time Workshop

Click here to advertise on CatholicCulture.org

Recent Catholic Commentary

The Mystery of the Spirit 9 hours ago

Against a Facile Assurance of Salvation, the Need for Mystery 10 hours ago

Making Sense of Society: The Ebook 15 hours ago

An exorcism? No, a blessing. You'd think reporters would know the difference. 18 hours ago

Learning from the sick, and from the death of a child May 17

Top Catholic News

Most Important Stories of the Last 30 Days

Pope strongly supports call for reform in religious life CWN - May 8