simonía
simony
Etymology tree showing the origins of the Spanish word simonía.Etymology tree showing the origins of the Spanish word simonía.
Etymology
The Spanish word 'simonía' (meaning 'simony', or the buying and selling of church offices) comes from Medieval Latin 'simonia', which ultimately derives from 'Simon', referring to Simon Magus, a biblical figure. Simon Magus appears in the Acts of the Apostles (Chapter 8), where he attempted to buy spiritual powers from the apostles. This act became so notorious that it gave rise to the term for the practice of purchasing religious privileges or positions within the church.
Related Spanish Words
While 'simonía' is a specialized religious term, there aren't many common Spanish words directly related to it etymologically, as it comes from a very specific historical figure and context.
Related English Words
The English word 'simony' is directly related to Spanish 'simonía', as both come from the same Medieval Latin source 'simonia'. Both languages preserve this term referring to the corrupt practice of buying or selling religious positions, named after Simon Magus.