DONATISM Meaning and
Definition
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Donatism refers to a Christian heresy that emerged in North Africa in the 4th and 5th centuries AD. It was named after Donatus Magnus, a church leader in North Africa during that period. The Donatists believed in a strict interpretation of religious purity and were known for their rigorous practice of church discipline.
The core belief of Donatism centered around sacramental validity and moral purity. They argued that the effectiveness of the sacraments, such as baptism and ordination, was contingent upon the moral character of the minister administering them. According to the Donatists, if a clergy member was deemed to be a sinner or had lapsed during periods of persecution, their ability to administer valid sacraments would be compromised.
This led to a schism within the early Christian Church in Africa, as Donatists refused to recognize bishops and clergy who had compromised their faith during times of persecution. They argued that only those who had remained steadfast in their beliefs were capable of administering valid sacraments. The Donatists regarded their own faction as the true Church, claiming to possess the sole authority and legitimacy.
Despite initial success, Donatism eventually weakened due to schisms within their own movement and the efforts of imperial authorities to suppress the movement. By the 6th century, the Donatists had largely disappeared as a distinct group, although some elements of their theological concerns can be seen in later religious movements.
Common Misspellings for DONATISM
Etymology of DONATISM
The word "Donatism" is derived from the name of its founder, Donatus Magnus, a bishop in North Africa during the 4th and 5th centuries. The Donatists were a sect within the early Christian Church that held specific theological and ideological beliefs, leading to their separation from the mainstream church. Hence, the term "Donatism" refers to the teachings and practices associated with Donatus and his followers.
Similar spelling words for DONATISM
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