The Concise Oxford Dictionary of World Religions (754 page)

Exodus, Book of
.

The second book of the Hebrew Bible and Christian Old Testament. The English title follows that of the Septuagint Greek version, the usual short Hebrew title
Shemoth
(‘names’) being the second word of the text. Like the rest of the
Pentateuch
the book is traditionally ascribed to Moses but is held by modern critics to be a composite work of the 9th to 5th cents. BCE. Miriam's song in 15. 21 may be among the oldest passages in the Bible.

 
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(Lat., ‘from the act done’). The objective mode of operation of the
sacraments
as understood in Catholic theology. The claim that a sacrament is effective
ex opere operato
means that so long as the conditions of its institution are properly observed and fulfilled, the defective qualities of the minister and recipient are no impediment, and
grace
is conferred.

 
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(Gk.,
exorkosis
, ‘out-oath’). The removing of that which has taken possession of a person or object or building. This is usually taken to be an
evil
spirit or
demon
.

 
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(Lat., ‘out of the East, light’). The belief that greater wisdom and deeper spirituality can be found in E. religions than in the materialistic West. Given impetus by such people as
Schopenhauer
and Sir Edwin Arnold (his
Light of Asia
appeared in 1879), it led to an extensive and serious academic endeavour to study the religions of the East, and to publish texts and translations.

 
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Expiation
.

The removal of an offence by means of some act or offering by, or on behalf of, the offender. According to one understanding of
atonement
in Christian theology,
Christ
made expiation vicariously for the sins of human beings.

 
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Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament
.

The displaying of the eucharistic
host
for the purpose of devotion, e.g. by opening the doors of the
tabernacle
where it is reserved, or in a
monstrance
. See also
BENEDICTION
;
CORPUS CHRISTI
.

 
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