Definition of miracle

The word "miracle" comes from the Latin word "miraculum," which means "something wonderful" or "an event worthy of wonder." The religious significance of the word can be traced back to the Christian faith, where it refers to an extraordinary event or happening that appears to defy the laws of nature and science, but is believed to be a manifestation of God's divine intervention. In Catholic theology, miracles are supernatural acts that serve as evidence of God's presence and power, and they are often associated with religious figures such as saints. The concept of miracles is also found in other religions, such as Judaism and Islam, where they are viewed as signs of God's power and mercy. However, the definition and acceptance of miracles vary among different religious and philosophical traditions. Some people view them as simply extraordinary occurrences that can be explained by scientific or psychological factors, while others believe in their supernatural nature as evidence of spiritual truths. Regardless of one's perspective, the word "miracle" continues to evoke a sense of awe, wonder, and mystery, and it remains an essential component of religious traditions and cultural belief systems around the world.