Legal Definitions - quadragesima

Quadragesima is a historical term primarily referring to two related concepts within Christian tradition, both linked to the number forty.

• It can refer to Lent, the solemn religious observance in the Christian liturgical calendar that begins on Ash Wednesday and concludes approximately six weeks later, before Easter Sunday. This period is traditionally observed for about 40 days, hence the name, which is derived from the Latin word for "fortieth."

• Alternatively, it can refer specifically to the first Sunday in Lent, also known as Quadragesima Sunday. This day marks the beginning of the Lenten Sundays and falls approximately 40 days before Easter.

Examples:

• Imagine a medieval monastery's chronicles detailing the year's events. A scribe might note, "Throughout Quadragesima, the brethren maintained a strict regimen of fasting and increased their hours of prayer, preparing their souls for the joyous celebration of the Resurrection."

  This example illustrates "quadragesima" referring to the entire Lenten period, emphasizing the traditional religious practices observed during the approximately 40 days leading up to Easter.

• A historical church calendar from the 15th century might list specific liturgical readings and hymns prescribed for "Dominica in Quadragesima," indicating the particular service to be held on the first Sunday of Lent.

  Here, "quadragesima" specifically denotes the first Sunday of the Lenten season, highlighting its significance as a distinct day within the broader observance, approximately 40 days before Easter.