apostate

An apostate is a person who renounces a religious belief or allegiance, or more broadly, abandons a political or ideological commitment. The term derives from the Greek apostates, from apostanai meaning to detach or revolt. In some contexts the term carries pejorative connotations and may be used by communities to stigmatize individuals who leave the faith.

In religious contexts, apostasy commonly refers to leaving a faith. In Islam, apostasy (irtidā’) has historical jurisprudence and varying contemporary interpretations; traditional rulings in some schools viewed it as a punishable offense, though modern practice in most countries does not enforce capital punishment, and many scholars emphasize freedom of belief. In Christianity, apostasy denotes a denial or abandonment of Christian faith or baptismal vows; in Judaism, renunciation of Judaism is sometimes treated as apostasy in traditional law, though it is not criminalized in modern states. In secular or political contexts, an apostate may be someone who abandons a political ideology or movement.

The status and consequences of apostasy vary widely by jurisdiction and community. Some places recognize freedom of conscience and religion; others impose social stigma, family or community pressure, or legal penalties. In public discourse, the term can be descriptive or pejorative, depending on perspective.

Apostasy intersects with debates on freedom of belief, religious liberty, and human rights. Related concepts include conversion, heresy, and blasphemy, as well as apostasy in various religious traditions.