Revelation
- A surprising and previously unknown fact that has been disclosed to others.
- The divine or supernatural disclosure of knowledge or truth.
Simple Version
Revelation refers to the act of revealing or making known something that was previously unknown or hidden.
Example
The detective’s revelation of the killer’s identity shocked the entire town.
Real World
In many religious traditions, revelation is seen as a way in which the divine communicates with humans, revealing truths and guiding them towards a deeper understanding of the world.
Synonyms
- Similar: Epiphany, Disclosure, Unveiling, Exposure, Discovery
Etymology
- The word “revelation” comes from the Latin “revelare,” meaning “to unveil” or “to disclose.” It has been used in English since the 14th century to describe the act of revealing or making known something that was previously unknown or hidden.
Denotations
- In a religious context, revelation often carries connotations of divine inspiration or guidance.
- In a more general sense, revelation can imply a sudden or unexpected discovery of truth or knowledge.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between revelation and epiphany?
While both terms refer to a sudden or unexpected discovery of truth or knowledge, revelation often implies a more profound or life-changing experience, whereas epiphany may be more of a moment of insight or understanding.
How does revelation relate to faith and spirituality?
In many religious traditions, revelation is seen as a way in which the divine communicates with humans, guiding them towards a deeper understanding of the world and their place in it.
Can revelation be a negative experience?
While revelation is often associated with positive experiences, such as discovering a long-hidden truth or gaining a deeper understanding of the world, it can also be a negative experience, such as discovering a painful or difficult truth.