(Latin: firmamentum, support)
The vault of the heavens. The idea of firmness in the sky is due to the Hebrew word which stresses the notions of solidity and expanse. The biblical narrative, which describes the physical universe in a popular way, shows the firmament to be a strong ceiling that divides the waters above from those below; it serves, too, as a support for the heavenly bodies (Genesis 1).
This dictionary contains not only definitions and explanations of every subject in Religion, Scripture, tradition, doctrine, morals, sacraments, rites, customs, devotions and symbolism, but also accounts of the Church in every continent, country, diocese; missions, notable Catholic centers, cities, and places with religious names; religious orders, church societies, sects and false religions. It has brief articles also on historical events and personages, on the Old Testament and New, and on popes, prelates, priests, men and women of distinction, showing what the Church has done for civilization and correcting many errors which have hitherto passed for history.Wikipedia
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