Providence (?), n. [L. providentia: cf. F. providence. See Provident, and cf. Prudence.] 1. The act of providing or preparing for future use or application; a making ready; preparation.
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Providence for war is the best prevention of it. Bacon.
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2. Foresight; care; especially, the foresight and care which God manifests for his creatures; hence, God himself, regarded as exercising a constant wise prescience.
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The world was all before them, where to choose
Their place of rest, and Providence their guide. Milton.
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3. (Theol.) A manifestation of the care and superintendence which God exercises over his creatures; an event ordained by divine direction.
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He that hath a numerous family, and many to provide for, needs a greater providence of God. Jer. Taylor.
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4. Prudence in the management of one's concerns; economy; frugality.
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It is a high point of providence in a prince to cast an eye rather upon actions than persons. Quarles.
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