Definition of reformation

The word "reformation" originates from the Latin "reformatio," which means "a making new or anew" or "a renovation." The term was first used during the Renaissance to describe the revival of classical learning and the restoration of ancient Roman and Greek ideals. In Christian context, the term "reformation" was used to describe the 16th-century movement led by figures such as Martin Luther, John Calvin, and Huldrych Zwingli, which aimed to reform the Catholic Church and its practices. The movement emphasized the authority of the Bible, criticized institutional corruption, and sought to purify Christian doctrine and practice. Over time, the term has broader application, encompassing any significant change or transformation in a system, institution, or society. Today, "reformation" is used in various contexts, including politics, economics, and personal development, often referring to a desire to reform or revolutionize existing structures and institutions.