Étude 1 sur 2 · Le moine Denys le Petit

  1. Étude 1 : Le moine Denys le Petit
  2. Étude 2 : La décision de fixer la naissance de Jésus au 25 décembre
  • INF014 The monk Dionysius Exiguus

    Dionysius Exiguus, a learned fifth-century monk, created the Anno Domini (AD) dating system, which is still used worldwide. He translated Greek canonical texts into Latin and helped unify the Christian calendar, notably the date of Easter. His calculations nevertheless contain inaccuracies, particularly concerning the year of Jesus' birth and the date of 25 December, the latter inherited from the Council of Nicaea (325). His legacy remains fundamental to the history of Christian chronology.

    Luke 2.8-12 (King James Version) :
    And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them: and they were sore afraid.And the angel said unto them, Fear not: for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
    King James Version (1769), domaine public — texte : eBible.org
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    Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate

  • INF017 The decision to set Jesus' birth on 25 December

    The Council of Nicaea (325) established liturgical rules that enabled Dionysius Exiguus to set Jesus' birth on 25 December. This date was chosen for symbolic reasons and to replace pagan winter solstice festivals, notably Sol Invictus. Although not historically verifiable, 25 December became the official date of Christmas in the Western Church.

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    Level: Intermediate Level: Intermediate