CultureSeptember 4, 2026

predestination

pree-DES-tuh-NAY-shun

Definition

The religious doctrine that all events, including human salvation or damnation, have been determined in advance by God.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'praedestinare', meaning to determine beforehand. It entered Middle English through Old French and Latin theological texts.

In the news

Schrader describes his Dutch Calvinist upbringing as being rooted in the belief in the predestination of guilt, suggesting this foundational theological concept deeply influenced the recurring themes of moral struggle in his films.

Schrader returns to guilt and redemption in Venice premiere

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1470 & 100.3 WMBD

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