Dictionary.com noun (used with a singular verb) 1. the art or practice of disputation or controversy: a master of polemics. 2. the branch of theology dealing with the history or conduct of ecclesiastical disputation and controversy. Etymonline.com 1630s, "controversial argument or discussion," from French polémique (16c./17c.), noun use of adjective meaning "disputatious, controversial" (see polemic (adj.)). Discussion/Explanation From the … Continue reading Polemics
-ologies & Key terms
Poimenics
Dictionary.com pastoral theology - the branch of theology dealing with the responsibilities of members of the clergy to the people under their care. Etymonline.com - - this term isn't in their database - - pastoral: "of or pertaining to shepherds," early 15c., from Old French pastoral (13c.), from Latin pastoralis "of herdsmen, of shepherds," from pastor (see pastor (n.)). The noun sense of "poem … Continue reading Poimenics
Philology
Dictionary.com noun the study of literary texts and of written records, the establishment of their authenti-city and their original form, and the determination of their meaning. (especially in older use) linguistics, especially historical and comparative linguistics. Obsolete. the love of learning and literature. Etymonline.com late 14c., "love of learning," from Latin philologia "love of learning, love of letters, love of study, literary culture," from Greek philologia "love of discussion, learning, and literature; studiousness," from philo- "loving" (see philo-) + logos "word, speech" (see Logos). Meaning "science of language" is first attested 1716 (philologue "linguist" is from 1590s; philologer "linguistic scholar" is from 1650s); this confusing secondary … Continue reading Philology
Epistemology
Epistemology - a big word referring to the study of knowledge itself. This isn't as cut and dry to define as some areas of study as it is effectively a branch of philosophy but still an important one for those studying the Scriptures. "Theory of knowledge" is another common definition of this area of study. … Continue reading Epistemology
Monergist Gratia 