Talitsemine

Talitsemine is the Estonian term for religious worship or devotion. It denotes the act of honoring the divine through practices such as prayer, liturgy, sacraments and ritual acts, whether performed alone or with a community. The scope can range from private, contemplative prayer to formal, structured rites in a church setting.

In Estonia, talitsemine is closely associated with Christian worship, particularly in Lutheran and Orthodox communities, where it is carried out as regular services, sermons, hymns and sacramental rites. The form and emphasis of talitsemine vary by denomination and tradition, with differences in liturgy, language, and music.

The concept also appears in broader religious contexts as a general term for devotion and reverence toward the divine or sacred. In academic or cultural discussions, talitsemine can be analyzed as part of ritual practice, religious identity, and community life, influencing calendars, holidays, and ethical norms.