Noun
/obeðjen̪ˈθja/ (in Castilian Spanish)
/obeˈðjensja/ (in Latin America)
The word obediencia refers to the act of obeying or following commands, rules, or laws. It is commonly used in both general language and specific contexts such as law and religion, where adherence to authority or doctrine is valued. The frequency of use is moderately high, particularly in educational, legal, and religious discussions. It has a more prevalent presence in written contexts due to its formal nature, although it is also used in spoken language.
La obediencia a las leyes es fundamental para una sociedad justa.
Obedience to the laws is fundamental for a just society.
La obediencia de los niños a sus padres es un valor importante en muchas culturas.
The obedience of children to their parents is an important value in many cultures.
En el contexto de la fe, la obediencia a los mandamientos es crucial.
In the context of faith, obedience to the commandments is crucial.
The concept of obediencia is often embedded in various idiomatic expressions in Spanish. Here are a few examples:
Significa seguir órdenes sin cuestionar.
It means following orders without questioning.
Ejemplo: La obediencia ciega de los soldados es a veces cuestionada en tiempos de guerra.
The blind obedience of soldiers is sometimes questioned in times of war.
Rendir obediencia
Implies to submit to authority or acknowledge superiority.
Ejemplo: Todos los ciudadanos deben rendir obediencia a la Constitución.
All citizens must render obedience to the Constitution.
Obediencia debida
Refers to acting rightly under orders, often used in legal contexts to justify actions taken at the directive of a superior.
Ejemplo: La obediencia debida no justifica actos ilegales.
The obedience due does not justify illegal acts.
The word obediencia originates from the Latin obedientia, which stems from obedire, meaning "to obey." This root reflects the essential nature of the term as it relates to compliance and subservience.
This comprehensive examination of the term obediencia covers its linguistic aspects, usage, idiomatic expressions, etymology, and related terms, offering a clear view of its significance in Spanish language and culture.