Word of the Week: The papal 'conclave' is secretive. The word's origin explains why
Briefly

Pope Francis' recent death has triggered the commencement of the conclave, the process by which a new pontiff is elected for the Roman Catholic Church. This ancient tradition involves secrecy and intense public interest. Historically, the conclave's secretive nature emerged in response to political interference that plagued prior elections. The term 'conclave' itself, with Latin roots meaning 'locked room,' highlights the importance of protecting the election process from exterior influences. The conclave remains a captivating blend of ancient rituals and contemporary relevance in today's fast-paced digital world.
The conclave, a locked-room election of the Pope by cardinals, is rooted in the desire to prevent outside influence and ensure divine guidance in the selection process.
The word 'conclave' originates from ancient Rome, representing a locked room; its historical usage highlights the sacred nature of papal elections over centuries.
Read at www.npr.org
[
|
]