Heretic - GCSE Religious Studies Definition
Reviewed by: Bridgette Barrett
Published
In the context of GCSE Religious Studies, a 'heretic' is someone who holds beliefs or opinions that deviate from the established doctrines of a particular religion, often leading to controversy or conflict within the religious community. Historically, heretics have been those who challenge the accepted teachings of a religious institution, such as the Christian Church, by proposing alternative interpretations or rejecting core beliefs. Exploring heresy helps students grasp the dynamics of religious authority, the nature of belief, and the impact of divergent views on religious traditions.
Examiner-written GCSE Religious Studies revision resources that improve your grades 2x
- Written by expert teachers and examiners
- Aligned to exam specifications
- Everything you need to know, and nothing you don’t

Share this article