Lõhestumine

Lõhestumine is an Estonian-language term that translates to "schism" or "division." It is primarily used in historical and religious contexts to describe significant breaks or splits within an organization or group. The most prominent use of the term in Estonian history refers to the division within the Estonian Orthodox Church. This division occurred in the early 20th century, following Estonia's declaration of independence. The Estonian Apostolic Orthodox Church sought to establish an autocephalous (self-governing) church, independent from the Moscow Patriarchate. This led to a protracted schism, with different factions aligning with various external church authorities. The issue of autocephaly and the relationship with the Russian Orthodox Church remained a source of tension and division for many years. The term lõhestumine can also be applied more broadly to any significant ideological or political split within Estonian society, though its primary association is with the ecclesiastical divisions. The consequences of such lõhestumine often involve prolonged disputes over property, jurisdiction, and theological interpretation, impacting the community involved for generations. Understanding the concept of lõhestumine is crucial for comprehending certain historical and social dynamics within Estonia, particularly concerning religious and national identity.