Heresy

Heresy is a belief or theory that is strongly at variance with established beliefs, customs, etc. It is a controversial or novel change to a system of beliefs, especially a religion, that conflicts with established dogma. It is distinguished from apostasy, which is the formal denunciation of one's religion, principles or cause, and blasphemy, which is irreverence toward religion.

Definition

The term heresy in religion is used today to denote the formal denial or doubt of a core doctrine of the Christian faith as defined by one or more of the Christian churches. It should be noted that the term does not necessarily imply a belief that is incorrect; religions may consider the religious beliefs of others to be heretical by definition. The study of heresy requires an understanding of the development of orthodoxy and the role of creeds in the definition of orthodox beliefs, since heresy is always defined in relation to orthodoxy.

History

In the first centuries of Christianity, the term heresy was used to refer to any beliefs or theories that were novel or controversial. It was only later, with the development of orthodoxy, that heresy came to refer to beliefs that were in conflict with established teachings. The first known usage of the term 'heretic' in a civil legal context was in 380 by the Edict of Thessalonica of Theodosius I.

Modern Usage

In modern times, the term heresy is often used in the context of the Christian Church, but it can also be used in other religious contexts, as well as in a secular context to refer to a belief or theory that is strongly at variance with established beliefs, customs, etc.

See Also

• Apostasy
• Blasphemy
• Orthodoxy
• Edict of Thessalonica
• Theodosius I

Heresy Resources
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