PreChristian

PreChristian is an adjective used in history, archaeology, and religious studies to describe periods, cultures, and practices that existed before the widespread adoption or dominance of Christianity. The term covers a range of beliefs and institutions across different regions and eras, and its boundaries vary by context.

Origin and usage: The construction is a compound of pre- and Christian. In scholarly writing it signals a contrast with Christian institutions and thought, but it does not imply a single, uniform "pre-Christian religion."

Regional and temporal scope: In Europe, the label often refers to Greco-Roman polytheism and local folk traditions before Christianization in late antiquity and the early medieval period. In the Mediterranean and Near East, it includes ancient Egyptian, Mesopotamian, Anatolian, and other polytheistic traditions that preceded Christian influence. In other parts of the world, the term may be used to describe indigenous beliefs before contact with Christian missionaries or colonial-era Christianization. The pace and nature of Christianization varied widely by region.

Criticism and alternatives: Some scholars argue that the term presupposes Christianity as a benchmark and can obscure regional diversity. Alternatives include regional labels (for example, "Greco-Roman religion" or "ancient Egyptian religion"), or more neutral terms like "pre-Christian beliefs" or "pagan traditions" in specific contexts.

See also: Paganism, Christianization, Classical antiquity, Religions of the ancient world, Indigenous religions.