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According to the lecture, what does the Greek word 'Mystes/mystai' translate to?"

a. Priest.
b. Initiate.
c. Philosopher.
d. Warrior.

1 Answer

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Final answer:

The Greek word 'Mystes/mystai' translates to 'Initiate,' referring to an individual participating in religious initiation rites or mysteries.

Step-by-step explanation:

The Greek word 'Mystes/mystai' translates to 'Initiate'. It is associated with those who participate in religious initiation rites, such as the Eleusinian Mysteries. Throughout ancient texts, mystery terminology was frequently employed by various figures, from philosophers like Plato to early Christian writers like the apostle Paul, to convey notions of esoteric knowledge and hidden wisdom connected to religious practices and sacred teachings. While the definition of mysteries evolved, the use of 'Mystes' in ancient Greek culture indicated an individual who was undergoing, or had undergone, a process of initiation into secret religious rites or mysteries, often involving a series of preparatory rituals leading to a culminating event that imparted sacred knowledge.

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