eschatological

American  

[es-kuh-tl-oj-i-kuhl, e-skat-l-] / ˌɛs kə tlˈɒdʒ ɪ kəl, ɛˌskæt l- /

adjective

1. Theology. having to do with eschatology, a system of doctrines concerning final matters, such as death, the Judgment, the afterlife, etc..

   This scenario stems from a perception of the world as morally imperfect, and a desire for its eschatological redemption.

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Other Word Forms

• eschatologically adverb

Etymology

Origin of eschatological

eschatolog(y) + -ical ( def. )

Explanation

Prophets, philosophers and theologians are all deeply concerned with eschatological issues, that is to say issues that are to do with divine judgement, the ultimate fate of mankind and the destiny of the soul. Eschatological content is heavy stuff, and fortunately not the sort of word that comes up often in casual conversation. Don't confuse eschatological with scatological, which sounds very similar but has a totally different meaning. To be scatological means to be unhealthily obsessed with excrement, or at the very least overly fond of bathroom humor. Keep your death jokes and poop jokes separate, please.

Example Sentences

Another reason is eschatological, meaning the study of “last things” or the “end of the world.”

From Salon • Oct. 8, 2023

At times, I was troubled by the utopianism running through this work, a preference for monks and eschatological dreamers over people who make an actual difference.

From Washington Post • Apr. 10, 2023

Whorisky and her designers have played up these eschatological hints with bold surrealistic touches.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 23, 2022

There are variations to eschatological beliefs, depending on sect and individual belief.

From Slate • Oct. 6, 2022

Of course such a limitation to his philosophy of life leaves out of account all supernatural and eschatological considerations.

From The Five Great Philosophies of Life by Hyde, William De Witt