Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

bell-book-and-candle

Phrase

/bɛl bʊk ənd ˈkændl/

Definition

A ceremonial expression used to signify the complete and formal excommunication of an individual from a religious community.

Examples

The priest used the bell-book-and-candle method during the solemn ceremony of excommunication.
In the past, bell-book-and-candle was seen as a last resort for dealing with unrepentant sinners.
The reference to bell-book-and-candle in literature often highlights themes of ostracism and punishment.

Meaning

The term refers to a historic method of excommunication in which a bell rings, a book is closed, and a candle is extinguished, symbolizing the person’s removal from the church and its community.