anfechtung

Anfechtung is a German noun meaning the act of challenging, disputing, or contesting something. It is used in several contexts, of which the two most prominent are law and theology.

In legal usage, Anfechtung denotes a formal challenge to a decision or administrative act by a public authority. The challenge is typically pursued through a lawsuit—often called Anfechtungsklage—in order to have the act annulled, amended, or otherwise ruled invalid. The grounds may include illegality, procedural errors, or misinterpretation of law. The remedy is judicial review and the outcome can range from annulment to modification or confirmation of the original decision.

In theological usage, Anfechtung refers to a period of inward struggle, temptation, doubt, or spiritual distress that tests a believer's faith. In Lutheran and other Protestant traditions, it may be described as an assault by the tempter or by the Devil, yet it is generally understood as a condition permitted by God to strengthen faith. Anfechtung is not simply sin or depression, but a dynamic experienced as part of the Christian life; pastoral writers advise endurance, prayer, Scripture, and trust in divine grace.