Verirrung

Verirrung is a German noun meaning the act of going astray or the state of being misled. Etymologically formed from ver- (away) and irren (to err), it covers both physical wandering and deviations in belief, judgment, or moral course. In everyday language it denotes a departure from a correct or expected path, whether literal or figurative.

In theological and philosophical contexts, Verirrung often denotes straying from truth, guidance, or divine will. In Christian theology it may describe humanity's fall into sin, apostasy, or false teaching. In epistemology and ethics it raises questions about responsibility for error and the conditions under which a person can be considered to have gone astray.

In literature, Verirrung is a common motif describing a character's journey away from virtue or truth, frequently used to explore consequences, repentance, and redemption. The term can also refer to deliberate deviation from tradition, dogma, or social norms as a narrative device.

See also: Irrtum, Irrweg, Verwechslung.