Heretic - GCSE Religious Studies Definition

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.