STIGMA
The Sage’s English Dictionary and Thesaurus describes stigma as
- Brand
- Mark
- Stain
- Symbol
Micheal Burke in his theology of stigma writes of the origins of the word.
“Stigma, a noun, is a mark of disgrace or shame…People began to use the word ‘stigma’ as a generic term for any kind of sign. In this way the plural of the word stigma, stigmata, which originally meant only ‘signs’, became almost unintentionally the most prevalent name for the wounds of Jesus when he was laid down from the cross.
The word ‘stigma’ itself (in the singular) began over time to have a negative connotation and ‘signs’ began to mean ‘prejudices'”.
Its interesting how he relates semiotics, communication, relationships and meaning. It makes me claim : Christians are called to be stigmatized. I will explore this aspect in my documentary as well.
Source : http://www.icmdahivinitiative.org/pages/a-theology-of-stigma.php
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