A modern dictionary of Catholic terms, both common and obscure. Find accurate definitions of words and phrases.
In general, a desertion from a solemn commitment. In the Old Testament apostasy meant a rebellion against the Lord (Joshua 22:22) or abandonment of the Jewish religion (I Maccabees 2:15). The two passages in the New Testament where the term occurs refer to giving up the Mosaic law (Acts 21:21) and the mysterious religious revolt that is to precede the second coming of Christ (II Thessalonians 2:3).
All items in this dictionary are from Fr. John Hardon's Modern Catholic Dictionary, © Eternal Life. Used with permission.