bless

Bless is a verb with several related meanings centered on the idea of divine or perceived good fortune. In religious usage, to bless means to confer divine favor or sanctify something or someone through a ritual or spoken blessing. It can also mean to praise or wish well for someone, or to make something holy or acceptable in a ceremonial sense. The noun “blessing” refers to the act itself or to the favorable result expected or received.

Etymology: The word derives from Old English blēdsian or blēdsian, related to blood and to the practice of sprinkling sacred substances during rites. Over time the sense broadened from ritual consecration to invoking general good fortune or protection.

Religious significance: In many traditions, blessings are performed by clergy or laypersons with authority. The form and content vary widely, from formal benedictions in Christian liturgy to blessings in Judaism, Islam, Hinduism, and other faiths. A blessing may be requested for individuals, objects, places, or events, and may be considered efficacious in bringing favorable outcomes or divine protection.

Secular usage: Outside liturgy, blessing is used to express good wishes, gratitude, or approval. The phrase “bless you” after a sneeze is a common courtesy in English-speaking cultures. “Blessed” can describe someone regarded as fortunate or, in religious contexts, as favored by God.

See also: Benediction, blessing (disambiguation), anointing, prayer.