E. Cobham Brewer 1810–1897. Dictionary of Phrase and Fable. 1898.
Ed’ify
is to build a house (Latin, œdes-facio); morally, to build instruction in the mind methodically, like an architect. The Scripture word edification means the building-up of “believers” in grace and holiness. St. Paul says, “Ye are God’s building,” and elsewhere he carries out the figure more fully, saying—
“All the building [or body of Christians], fitly framed together, groweth unto a holy temple in the Lord.”—Eph. ii. 21.
