01 n. Belief; the assent of the mind to the truth of what is declared by another, resting solely and implicitly on his authority and veracity; re…
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1.
Belief; the assent of the mind to the truth of what is declared by another, resting solely and implicitly on his authority and veracity; reliance on testimony.
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2.
The assent of the mind to the statement or proposition of another, on the ground of the manifest truth of what he utters; firm and earnest belief, on probable evidence of any kind, especially in regard to important moral truth.“Faith, that is, fidelity, -- the fealty of the finite will and understanding to the reason.” — Coleridge.
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The belief in the historic truthfulness of the Scripture narrative, and the supernatural origin of its teachings, sometimes called historical and speculative faith.(Judeo-Christian Theol.)“Without faith it is impossible to please him [God].” — Heb. xi. 6.“The faith of the gospel is that emotion of the mind which is called “trust” or “confidence” exercised toward the moral character of God, and particularly of the Savior.” — Dr. T. Dwight.“Faith is an affectionate, practical confidence in the testimony of God.” — J. Hawes.
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4.
That which is believed on any subject, whether in science, politics, or religion; especially (Theol.), a system of religious belief of any kind; as, the Jewish or Muslim faith; the Christian faith; also, the creed or belief of a Christian society or church.(Theol.)“Which to believe of her, Must be a faith that reason without miracle Could never plant in me.” — Shak.“Now preacheth the faith which once he destroyed.” — Gal. i. 23.
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5.
Fidelity to one's promises, or allegiance to duty, or to a person honored and beloved; loyalty.“Children in whom is no faith.” — Deut. xxvii. 20.“Whose failing, while her faith to me remains, I should conceal.” — Milton.
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Word or honor pledged; promise given; fidelity; as, he violated his faith.“For you alone I broke me faith with injured Palamon.” — Dryden.
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7.
Credibility or truth.[R.]“The faith of the foregoing narrative.” — Mitford.
Phrases & compounds
Act of faith —
See Auto-da-fé.
Faith cure —
a method or practice of treating diseases by prayer and the exercise of faith in God.
In good faith —
with perfect sincerity.