Õpetuses

Õpetuses is an Estonian term tied to the ideas of teaching and instruction. In Estonian grammar, õpetus refers to instruction, doctrine, or a manual, and the form õpetuses is the inessive singular meaning “in the teaching” or “in the instruction.” The plural form õpetused denotes multiple teachings or instructional texts. The word is commonly found in religious, educational, and philosophical writings to indicate content that conveys rules, beliefs, or methods.

In religious contexts, õpetus and its derivatives are used to describe doctrinal statements or catechetical material. In educational and pedagogical writing, it can refer to a formal set of guidelines, a curriculum, or a textbook. In philosophical or rhetorical contexts, the term may denote a systematic body of principles or a body of instruction that guides thought or conduct. The exact meaning often depends on the surrounding text.

Etymology and related forms: õpetus derives from the verb õpetama (to teach) and the noun-forming suffix -us, with connections to õpe (learning, study). Related words include õpetlik (instructive) and the broader noun family around teaching and instruction. The plural õpetused is frequently used to refer to several teachings or instructional works, while the form Õpetuses can appear as a heading, section title, or locative phrase within a text.

See also: õppetus or õpetus (as a general term for instruction or doctrine), käsiraamat (manual), katekismus (catechism) in religious contexts.