Persecution of Christians

Kharput Greek-Orthodox refugees - C.D.Morris - National Geographic, Nov. 1925

The Death of Stephen by Gustave Doré

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Crucifixion of Saint Peter-Caravaggio (c.1600)

Siemiradzki Christian Dirce

Jean-Léon Gérôme - The Christian Martyrs' Last Prayer - Walters 37113

Ignatius of Antioch

Persecution of Christians refers to the various forms of mistreatment, discrimination, and violence that Christians have faced throughout history due to their religious beliefs. This persecution has occurred in various forms, including legal discrimination, social ostracism, property confiscation, physical violence, and execution. The reasons for persecution are varied and include religious, political, and social factors.

History

The history of Christian persecution can be traced back to the first century, with the earliest recorded instance being the execution of Saint Stephen by Jewish authorities, as documented in the Acts of the Apostles in the New Testament. The Roman Empire was also notorious for its persecution of Christians, particularly during the reigns of emperors such as Nero and Diocletian. These early Christians were persecuted for refusing to worship Roman gods, which was seen as a rejection of Roman authority and a threat to the empire's unity and stability.

Following the Edict of Milan in 313 AD, which granted religious freedom throughout the empire, the widespread persecution of Christians in the Roman Empire largely ceased. However, new forms of persecution emerged throughout history, including during the Middle Ages, when Christians who were considered heretical by the dominant church authorities faced persecution. The Crusades and the Inquisition are notable examples of this period.

In the modern era, persecution has taken on different forms in various parts of the world. In some countries, Christians face legal restrictions and social discrimination. In others, they are subject to violence and even death at the hands of governments, extremist groups, or societal mobs. Countries with significant reports of Christian persecution include North Korea, Somalia, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and parts of the Middle East and Africa.

Types of Persecution

Persecution of Christians can be categorized into several types, including:

• Legal Discrimination: Laws and regulations that limit the rights of Christians to practice their faith, such as restrictions on building or repairing churches, or on converting from the dominant religion to Christianity.
• Social Ostracism: Social pressure and practices that isolate Christians from their communities, including in employment, education, and social services.
• Property Confiscation: The seizure of property belonging to Christians or Christian churches by government or non-government actors.
• Physical Violence: Acts of violence against Christians, including assault, torture, and murder.
• Execution: The killing of Christians because of their faith, either by state or non-state actors.

Responses

Responses to the persecution of Christians have varied. Christian communities often engage in prayer, solidarity, and advocacy to support persecuted Christians. International organizations and some governments have also taken steps to address religious persecution, including sanctions, diplomatic pressure, and providing asylum to refugees fleeing religious persecution.

See also

• Religious persecution
• Freedom of religion
• Martyr