chiliasm

[kil-ee-az-uhm]

noun

Theology.

1. the doctrine of Christ's expected return to reign on earth for 1000 years; millennialism.

chiliasm

/ ˈkɪlɪˌæzəm /

noun

1. Christian theol another term for millenarianism millennium

Other Word Forms

• chiliast noun
• chiliastic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of chiliasm¹

1600–10; < Greek chīliasmós, equivalent to chī́li ( oi ) 1000 + -asmos, variant of -ismos -ism before stems ending in -i-

Word History and Origins

Origin of chiliasm¹

C17: from Greek khiliasmos, from khilioi a thousand

Example Sentences

By the early 18th century, moral instability encouraged both libertinism and chiliasm.

From Washington Post

It is distinguished by its missionary zeal for the conversion of the natives, pursues with special interest the study of the prophetic word, and makes chiliasm an open question which need not rend the church.

From Project Gutenberg

The Alogi in the 2nd century rejected the Apocalypse on account of its chiliasm, its teaching of a visible reign of Christ on earth for a thousand years.

From Project Gutenberg

During the third century the belief in chiliasm as a part of the Church's faith died out in nearly all parts of the Church.

From Project Gutenberg

That there have been teachings and beliefs put forth, and usually called chiliasm, which are heretical and subversive of the true Gospel, there can be no question.

From Project Gutenberg