(Greek: physiologos, one who discourses on nature)
A collection of Christian allegories dating probably from the 2century in which religious truths are symbolized by animals, e.g., Christ's saving of mankind by His Crucifixion is represented by the pelican who feeds its off-spring by shedding its own blood. It derives its name from the introductory phrase of each tale "the physiologus (naturalist) says..." Various translations and adaptations of the original Greek text have been made and the numerous Bestiaries derived much of their material from it. It was universally popular in the Middle Ages and exerted a wide influence on medieval literature and ecclesiastical art.
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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