Areopagite for Dummies

Areopagite is a word that might sound complicated at first, but don't worry, I'm here to explain it to you in a way that makes sense. The word "Areopagite" is actually derived from an ancient Greek word, "Areopagus," which means "Hill of Ares." Now, imagine there's a hill, just like the one you see in a picture where hills have a sloping surface and are usually covered with green grass. It can be a big hill or a small hill, it doesn't matter. This hill is called the "Hill of Ares," and on this hill, important people used to gather and make important decisions.

So when we talk about an "Areopagite," we are referring to a person who was a member of the Areopagus council. In ancient Athens, this council was very powerful and had the responsibility of discussing and deciding on important matters related to the city. It was like a group of wise individuals who would come together on this hill, share their thoughts and opinions, and then make important decisions for the well-being of Athens.

Now, let's take a step back and think about a different situation, like a school playground. You know how there are different groups of friends who gather around and make decisions about playing games or where to have lunch? Well, imagine this Areopagus council as a group of friends who were wise and knowledgeable, kind of like the older kids in school who always seem to have the best ideas. They were the ones who would gather on the Hill of Ares to discuss important matters and make decisions, similar to how the older kids gather and make decisions on the playground.

So, to sum it up, an Areopagite is a word that refers to a person who was a member of a powerful council in ancient Athens that made important decisions for the city. It's kind of like being part of a wise group of friends who gather on a hill and discuss important matters, just like the older kids in school who make decisions on the playground.