(Hebrews: repetition)
A collection of precepts which forms the basis of the Talmud, and embodies the contents of the oral law, as opposed to the written law, the Pentateuch. The beginning of the Mishna goes back to the time of the Machabees; it was delivered orally from generation to generation, and could be learned only by constant repetition. About 220, it was compiled in its present shape by R Jehuda, the patriarch, who used the idiom of the New Hebrew, interspersed with Greek and Latin words.
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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