herelighet

Herelighet is a Norwegian noun that translates roughly to "sin" or "transgression" in English. The term is derived from Old Norse "herligð" meaning a wrongful act or ruling, itself rooted in the Proto-Germanic *herlizaz, which originally referred to a judgment or decree. Over time "herelighet" came to signify acts that contravene moral or divine law.

In theological contexts, herelighet has been used in the titles of several religious works and sermons within the Lutheran tradition in Norway, such as "Om Herelighet og Tilgivelse" (On Sin and Forgiveness). The word appears in Norwegian translations of the Bible, particularly in passages that discuss the nature of sin, its consequences, and the need for repentance. In doctrinal literature it often stands in contrast to "salig" (blessed) or "hadan" (providence), underscoring the moral drama of human fallibility and divine mercy.

While the everyday use of herelighet has declined, the word remains a common fixture in literary and poetic texts in Norway, where it conveys a sense of grave moral failing or profound transgression. In contemporary Scandinavian languages, the cognate Danish word "herlighed" is occasionally used with similar meaning, though it can also carry connotations of grandeur in more poetic contexts.

The concept of herelighet roots in the broader Christian theological discussion of original sin, personal sin, and the possibility of redemption through grace. It is frequently employed in sermons and theological education to illustrate the dialectic between human weakness and divine forgiveness. In sum, herelighet functions as a culturally specific term that encapsulates the moral and spiritual notions of sin within Norwegian-language Christianity.