ANABAPTISM Meaning and
Definition
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Anabaptism refers to a Christian movement that emerged during the 16th century as a radical reform of the Protestant Reformation. The term "anabaptism" itself means "re-baptism" in Greek, pointing to one of the movement's distinctive practices. Anabaptists rejected infant baptism, instead advocating for belief in the sanctity of adult baptism, considering it central to becoming a true Christian.
Anabaptists adhered to various beliefs and practices, but key tenets included pacifism, a separation of church and state, and communal living. Their rejection of the merging of church and state often brought them into conflict with both Protestant and Catholic authorities, leading to persecution and martyrdom.
The movement was characterized by its emphasis on personal religious experience, voluntary association, and communal sharing. Anabaptists believed in the Bible as the central authority for faith and practice and sought to create a community of true believers who actively lived out the teachings of Jesus Christ.
This movement gave rise to various branches of Christianity, including Mennonites, Amish, Hutterites, and Brethren, among others, each with their own specific interpretations of Anabaptist beliefs and practices. Anabaptism, known for its radical approach to Christianity, played a significant role in shaping the religious and social landscape of Europe during the Reformation era and continues to leave a lasting impact on the Christian faith today.
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The doctrine of the Anabaptists.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for ANABAPTISM
Etymology of ANABAPTISM
The word "anabaptism" comes from the Greek prefix "ana-" meaning "again" or "re-" and the Greek word "baptismos" meaning "baptism". It was initially used to describe the religious practice of baptizing individuals who were already baptized in another Christian tradition. The term emerged during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century to refer to the movement of Christians who rejected infant baptism and advocated for adult baptism, based on their belief that only individuals who could make a conscious and voluntary decision to follow Christ should be baptized.
Similar spelling word for ANABAPTISM
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