Definition of a Miracle

[Will_Storm]

I have done my due diligence in the CCC but haven’y found anything that directly defines what a miracle is.

Thank you for your help.

 

[TheDoctor]

I doubt the definition is in the Catechism because it is such a well defined word. What it meant in the first century is what it means today. From Webster:
An event or effect contrary to the established constitution and course of things, or a deviation from the known laws of nature; a supernatural event, or one transcending the ordinary laws by which the universe is governed.
Is there something more to your question than just a simple definition?

 

[Marie5890]

I doubt the definition is in the Catechism because it is such a well defined word. What it meant in the first century is what it means today. From Webster:
An event or effect contrary to the established constitution and course of things, or a deviation from the known laws of nature; a supernatural event, or one transcending the ordinary laws by which the universe is governed.
Is there something more to your question than just a simple definition?

I think I understand the OP’s question. “Miracle” is a word that gets used a lot, over used if ask me.

Take example of the wonderful experience of birth. We tend to call it a miracle, yet it’s very common and happens all the time.

It’s beautiful!. But by your above definition, it’s not miraculous.

 

[InNomineDomini]

According Fr. Hardon’s Modern Catholic Dictionary:

*A sensibly perceptible effect, surpassing at least the powers of visible nature, produced by God to witness to some truth or testify to someone’s sanctity. (Etym. Latin miraculum, miracle, marvel; from mirari, to wonder.)

Also, the glossary of the Catechism defines miracle thusly:

MIRACLE: A sign or wonder, such as a healing or the control of nature, which can only be attributed to divine power. The miracles of Jesus were messianic signs of the presence of God’s kingdom (547).

*If your version of the Catechism doesn’t contain a glossary, the version which does is this one.

 

[edwest2]

Whenever a miracle is reported, the Congregation for Saints Causes investigates. Depending on the type of miracle: spontaneous healing, partial healing or other apparently supernatural events, all information is collected, including medical reports or other official records, interviews with doctors or other professionals, and others who were involved. This can take years, or, a shorter period of time. In the case of permanent healings, there is a waiting period to ensure the illness does not return. For the person to whom something happened, the cause can be drinking Lourdes water or praying to a saint who prays to God on that person’s behalf. God does the actual work.

Examples:

kmov.com/community/blogs/reporters-blog/Vatican-investigates-miracle-in-St-Louis-98591419.html

catholicnewsagency.com/news/documentary_on_miracle_of_pacocha_submarine_debuts_in_peru/

Peace,
Ed

 

[Casilda]

An additional question regarding the definition of miracle, because of the scrutiny to verify such happenings, are miracles similar to personal revelations? Saying, that if you have experienced a miracle in your life (or a series of miracles), maybe one reason people don’t believe you, is that they are meant for personal edification? I believe that our guardian angels have produced innumerable miracles, that those of us whom they protect are just in constant awe of the spiritual rhelm and in constant sorry for those who do not believe.