This word comes from the Greek, more specifically from the term neophytos. The prefix neo means new and phyton means plant. Therefore, etymologically it means newly planted. A person is considered a neophyte when he is at the beginning of an activity or discipline and does not fully know it.
This term can be considered a cultism and as such is used little in everyday communication. In its place, equivalent terms are used, such as apprentice, beginner, beginner, novice, among others. In the opposite sense, we call a veteran or experienced person who already has sufficient knowledge in a given subject and, therefore, cannot be considered a neophyte.
in Christianity
In early Christianity those who began the religion were known as neophytes. This term was also used to refer to recent converts to the Christian religion.
Still talking about the beginning of Christianity, the neophyte who joined a religious community was welcomed with affection by its members. To distinguish himself from the others, the neophyte wore white clothing. In Christian religious terminology the neophyte is a novice. In religious orders, novices must go through a period of formation, known as a novitiate.
In most religious orders the novitiate lasts for twelve months. During this period the beginner in the religious life of a community needs to prepare for the spiritual life. In this sense, during the novitiate phase there is a formative activity and a proximity to the rules of the community.
In the initial learning process
When starting a new activity there is an obvious inexperience in every way. The neophyte does not know the terminology of the new discipline and ignores the secrets of any discipline or task. Consequently, as an inexperienced person, you need to become familiar with everything related to your new project, be it professional, religious or political.
The intern figure as an example of a neophyte
The intern is one who has knowledge about a certain subject, but does not have enough work experience . Many companies incorporate interns on their staff. The figure of this subject must be understood from two points of view. On the one hand, he is an inexperienced young man who has the opportunity to acquire new knowledge in the business world. At the same time, companies can train young people who, going through this internship stage, can be integrated into the work team as qualified professionals.
