apostasy

Apostasy is the formal renunciation or abandonment of a religious faith, or, more broadly, of a political belief or allegiance that a person previously held. The word derives from the Greek apostasia, meaning defection or standing away. In religious discourse, apostasy typically refers to leaving a faith, though it can also describe abandoning a religious or political identity in a wider sense.

In Islam, classical jurisprudence distinguishes between belief (iman) and apostasy (ridda); historical interpretations have proposed varied penalties, including execution in extreme cases. In modern practice, many Muslim-majority countries have abolished or not enforced apostasy laws, and penalties vary widely or are civil rather than criminal. In Christianity and Judaism, apostasy is generally treated as a personal change of belief rather than a crime; communities may discipline or excommunicate members, but criminal sanctions are uncommon in contemporary secular states.

Apostasy also applies to renunciation of political or ideological loyalty. In some authoritarian or religiously governed states, leaving the approved creed or joining dissident movements can invite social censure or legal penalties. In liberal democracies, apostasy is usually protected as freedom of conscience and expression, although individuals may still face social repercussions.

Scholarly discussions center on the balance between religious freedom and community norms, the rights of minors versus adults, and questions of coercion or persecution. International human rights law generally upholds freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, while permitting states to regulate conduct that threatens others. The concept remains controversial where religious identity is tightly bound to social or national belonging.

See also: Freedom of religion; excommunication; apostasy laws; religious conversion.