Biblical Word Etymology
The Etymology of “Heresy”
The biblical word “Heresy” traces back to Greek (hairesis (Greek)), where it meant “A sect or party; a chosen opinion or doctrine deviating from accepted truth”. Across 3eras it evolved into the modern sense: “A belief or opinion contrary to orthodox doctrine; dissent from established dogma”.
How the Meaning Evolved
Ancient Hebrew/Greek
Greekhairesis (Greek)A sect or party; a chosen opinion or doctrine deviating from accepted truth
Greek hairesis (G139) from haireomai (to choose). Originally neutral ('school of thought'), later became pejorative for false doctrine (2 Peter 2:1, 1 Corinthians 11:19).
Medieval Latin / Church
LatinhaeresisFalse doctrine concerning God, Christ, or salvation; deviation from Catholic orthodoxy subject to inquisition
Latin haeresis from Greek hairesis. Medieval Church defined heresy as willful denial of Catholic doctrine; heretics faced trial, recantation demands, and execution.
Modern English
EnglishheresyA belief or opinion contrary to orthodox doctrine; dissent from established dogma
From Old French and Latin haeresis. Post-Reformation, heresy became less about execution and more about theological disagreement and sectarian identity.