Today's word is a little more on the specific side of things, and as such, I don't have anything in particular that I can draw from my life to use it with. I do wish to state that if I have any readers that are particularly religious and don't wish to read about any use of religion in extremism that those readers check back tomorrow for a different word. With that being said, let's get on with it, shall we?
Beatifically | biː.əˈtɪf.ɪ.kəl.i: adjective: in a way that appears happy and calm, especially in a holy way
I have seen this word in particular used rather regularly to describe a smile or expression, often of those on the more extreme side of religion, whatever that religion may be. Many good stories in fiction and fantasy reside around some form of religion, just as most ordinary people have some form of religion in their lives.
In some cases, a beatific smile can speak of reverence to a god or goddess. Having true inner peace due to the faith in that omnipotent being can often bring a sense of euphoria to a person, giving the outward appearance of gentle, happy calmness.
Beatific | bē-ə-ˈti-fik: adjective: of, possessing, or imparting beatitude; having a blissful appearance
In today's case, there is a little more to the story. I have read of many different forms of religious extremism, both as a part of my research and just because in some of the books I read, it makes for a very good villain. Today, I made sure to actually take some time to read more of my book of the month, Moon Chosen. The main antagonist is a frightening creature of a man named Dead Eye.
Dead Eye has proclaimed himself to be a God because, to him, the Reaper - the goddess of his people - is dead. Like many in history, Dead Eye wandered out alone and away from his people in search of answers to why his god did not speak to him. Then, he found his answer in the most gruesome of ways and brings it back to his people, proclaiming himself the Reaper's Champion.
Dead Eye basked in their worship, smiling own at them beatifically as his mind whirred with the limitless possibilities the future held.
Such religious zealots can turn the tides in a matter of minutes, almost to the point of missing the transformation if you blink. Faith can move mountains, but in some people, that's not always a good thing. On the upside, it makes for one heck of a bloody story!
If you have the stomach for more, I do very highly recommend this book. Not all of it is the gore of Dead Eye's story, as there's more to it than just his people. But the series is a fantastic representation of fearmongering, stereotyping, and the change that a person can bring with the right heart. Not to mention the magics! It's definitely a page-turner. And if you happen to pick it up, be sure to let me know what you think (and maybe even go gush to P.C. Cast about how amazing of an author she is). And until tomorrow, happy reading!
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