Definition of the word hagiography

The term "hagiography" comes from the Greek words "hagios," meaning saint, and "graphê," meaning writing. It refers to the literary genre that describes the lives, virtues, and miracles of saints. This type of writing evolved in the Christian tradition as a way to venerate and honor the most holy figures of the faith. The primary purpose of hagiography is to serve as a spiritual guide, offering examples of holy living and demonstrating the power and intercession of the saints. It gained popularity during the medieval period and is still employed in religious communities today. Hagiography, however, has also been criticized for its lack of emphasis on historical accuracy and for perpetuating myths and legends rather than actual accounts of saints' lives. Nevertheless, it remains an integral part of religious literature and a testament to the rich legacy of saintly figures throughout history.