Ókeresztény

Ókeresztény is a Hungarian term used to describe religious life, art and social practices in a region before or outside the influence of Christianity. In scholarly contexts it denotes the pre-Christian era or non-Christian traditions that preceded the conversion to Christianity, rather than a specific religious denomination.

Etymology and scope: The word combines ó-, meaning ancient or former, with keresztyén, Christian. The term is descriptive and period-based, not a doctrinal label, and its exact temporal boundaries vary by region. It is commonly applied in archaeology, anthropology and history to refer to rituals, temples, grave goods and artifacts that predate Christian worship.

Usage and examples: In Hungary and Central Europe, ókeresztény is used to discuss the material and cultural traces of peoples before Christian institutions took hold, including stone monuments, burial practices and other non-Christian religious expressions that existed prior to or alongside early Christianization processes.

Relation to other terms: Ókeresztény is related to, but distinct from, pogány (pagan). It is a neutral, scholarly descriptor that emphasizes historical period and cultural forms rather than explicit belief. Because pre-Christian life varied widely across regions, the exact meaning of “ókeresztény” can differ between studies and should be interpreted within its regional historical context.