Mys″ter‐y, n.; pl.Mysteries. [OE. mistere, OF. mestier, F. métier, L. ministerium. See Ministry.] 1. A trade; a handicraft; hence, any business with which one is usually occupied.
Fie upon him, he will discredit our mystery. Shak.
And that which is the noblest mystery
Brings to reproach and common infamy. Spenser.
2. A dramatic representation of a Scriptural subject, often some event in the life of Christ; a dramatic composition of this character; as, the Chester Mysteries, consisting of dramas acted by various craft associations in that city in the early part of the 14th century.
“Mystery plays,” so called because acted by craftsmen. Skeat.