Religious Terms and Concepts

Front

Heresy

Back

An opinion or belief that contradicts established religious teachings.

Front

Indulgence

Back

A pardon for sin for oneself or one’s dead relatives or friends. The granting of an indulgence could help speed deceased sinners from purgatory to heaven. In Martin Luther’s time, the Catholic Church sold indulgences.

Front

Justification

Back

The Christian belief that the grace of God absolves people from all sin; An act of God freeing an individual of guilt for sin; achieving salvation.

Front

Monastery

Back

A group of people, especially monks, living together and observing religious vows.

Front

Nepotism

Back

Patronage bestowed or favoritism shown on the basis of family relationship, as in business and politics.

Front

Papal

Back

Relating to the POPE.

Front

Predestination

Back

The belief that God has chosen certain individuals for salvation.

Front

Recant

Back

To withdraw or disavow a statement or opinion, especially formally.

Front

Simony

Back

The selling or buying of a position in a Christian church.

Front

Theocracy

Back

A community governed by a god or priests.