kanonizáció

Kanonizáció is a term primarily used in religious contexts, especially within Christianity, to refer to the process by which a person is officially recognized as a saint by a religious institution. This recognition signifies that the individual lived a life of exceptional virtue and is believed to be in heaven, capable of interceding for others.

The process of kanonizáció varies significantly between different Christian denominations. In the Roman Catholic Church, it is a lengthy and rigorous procedure overseen by the Congregation for the Causes of Saints. It involves extensive investigation into the candidate's life, writings, and reputation for holiness, often requiring proof of miracles attributed to their intercession after their death. This formal canonization culminates in a papal declaration.

In Eastern Orthodox Christianity, the process is generally less formalized and often arises organically from the veneration of a holy person by the faithful. A local synod or patriarchate may then formally recognize this popular devotion, leading to the inclusion of the person in the liturgical calendar as a saint.

Beyond its religious meaning, "kanonizáció" can sometimes be used metaphorically to describe the process of something being officially accepted, recognized, or canonized within a particular field or society, such as the canonization of literary works or scientific theories. However, its core meaning remains tied to the religious act of declaring sainthood.