Revival

Revival is the process of renewed life, interest, or vitality after a period of decline or dormancy. The term can apply to individuals, groups, cultures, or institutions, and it is used across religious, cultural, and linguistic contexts to describe a resurgence of energy or relevance.

In religion, revival denotes renewed spiritual interest, often with emphatic preaching, missionary activity, and collective worship. Historically significant examples include the Great Awakenings in 18th- and 19th-century North America, which expanded church membership and spurred social reforms. In the 20th century, Pentecostal and Charismatic movements popularized revivalist methods and beliefs on a global scale.

In culture and the arts, revival means renewed interest in historical styles, forms, or traditions. This can manifest as architectural revivals (for example, Gothic or neoclassical revivals), theatrical or musical revivals of earlier works, or renewed attention to folk and regional arts as part of national or regional identity.

Language and community revival involves revitalizing a language or cultural practice that is endangered or diminishing. Efforts typically include education, media production, government support, and community organizations. Notable examples include Hebrew, Irish Gaelic, Welsh, and Māori language revival movements.

The term is also used more broadly to describe renewed attention to ideas, trends, or technologies after a downturn, though such usage is less formal than in religious or linguistic contexts.