A title which indicates the special value attached to the first male offspring, both human and animal. In the Bible the first-born males belonged to the Lord (Exodus 13). In instances, however, both the firstling of the flocks and herds, as well as the first-born son, could be redeemed. The rights of primogeniture were highly regarded; for they affected inheritance, authority, etc., in the family.
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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