Definition and Etymology:
The term "anathematize" originates from the Greek word "anathema," which means something dedicated to evil or destruction. In biblical contexts, to anathematize is to pronounce a curse upon someone or something, often implying a complete separation from the community of believers or from God's favor.

Biblical Usage:
In the Bible, anathematizing is a serious action that involves setting someone or something apart for destruction or divine judgment. It is often associated with the idea of excommunication or being cut off from the covenant community. The concept is rooted in the holiness of God and the need for purity within His people.

Old Testament Context:
In the Old Testament, the concept of anathema is closely related to the Hebrew term "cherem," which refers to things devoted to God for destruction. For example, in the conquest of Canaan, certain cities and their inhabitants were placed under the ban, meaning they were to be completely destroyed as an offering to God (Joshua 6:17-21).

New Testament Context:
In the New Testament, the Apostle Paul uses the term in a spiritual and ecclesiastical context. In Galatians 1:8-9 , Paul writes, "But even if we or an angel from heaven should preach a gospel contrary to the one we preached to you, let him be under a curse! As we have said before, so now I say again: If anyone is preaching to you a gospel contrary to the one you received, let him be under a curse!" Here, Paul anathematizes those who distort the gospel message, emphasizing the gravity of maintaining doctrinal purity.

In 1 Corinthians 16:22 , Paul states, "If anyone does not love the Lord, let him be under a curse. Come, O Lord!" This reflects the seriousness of rejecting Christ and the resulting separation from the community of believers.

Theological Implications:
Anathematizing in the biblical sense underscores the importance of holiness and doctrinal integrity within the Christian community. It serves as a warning against false teachings and moral corruption. The act of anathematizing is not taken lightly, as it involves the spiritual well-being of individuals and the community.

Historical and Ecclesiastical Usage:
Throughout church history, anathematization has been used in various councils and ecclesiastical settings to address heresies and maintain orthodoxy. The early church councils, such as the Council of Nicaea, issued anathemas against those who propagated heretical teachings, thereby preserving the core tenets of the Christian faith.

Practical Considerations:
While the act of anathematizing is rare in modern church practice, the principle remains relevant. Churches are called to uphold sound doctrine and address teachings or behaviors that threaten the spiritual health of the congregation. The process should be approached with humility, prayer, and a desire for restoration, reflecting the heart of God who desires that none should perish (2 Peter 3:9).

Conclusion:
Anathematizing is a biblical concept that highlights the seriousness of maintaining purity and truth within the Christian faith. It serves as a reminder of the consequences of deviating from the gospel and the importance of upholding the integrity of the church.(v. t.) To pronounce an anathema against; to curse. Hence: To condemn publicly as something accursed.

A Confession of the Catholic Faith which Pope Damasus Sent to ...
... We therefore anathematize those who do not with all freedom preach that the Holy
Spirit is of one and the same substance and power with the Father and the Son. ...
/.../the ecclesiastical history of theodoret/chapter xi a confession of the.htm

Those who from the Heretics Come Over to Orthodoxy...
... And the Manich??ans, and Valentinians and Marcionites and all of similar heresies
must give certificates and anathematize each his own heresy, and also ...
/.../schaff/the seven ecumenical councils/canon xcv those who from.htm

Extracts from the Acts. Session i. (Continued).
... continue (col.502):]. All the bishops cried out together: Whoever does not
anathematize Nestorius let him be anathema. Such an one ...
/.../schaff/the seven ecumenical councils/extracts from the acts session 2.htm

The Canons of the Holy and Ecumenical Seventh Council. Canon I.
... Accordingly those whom they placed under anathema, we likewise anathematize; those
whom they deposed, we also depose; those whom they excommunicated, we also ...
/.../schaff/the seven ecumenical councils/the canons of the holy 3.htm

Theodoret and Chalcedon.
... "The most reverend bishops all stood before the rails of the most holy altar, and
shouted "Theodoret must now anathematize Nestorius." Theodoret, the most ...
/.../theodoret/the ecclesiastical history of theodoret/v theodoret and chalcedon.htm

The Decree of the Holy, Great, Ecumenical Synod, the Second of ...
... We detest and anathematize Arius and all the sharers of his absurd opinion; also
Macedonius and those who following him are well styled "Foes of the Spirit ...
/.../schaff/the seven ecumenical councils/the decree of the holy.htm

The Decretal Letter of Pope vigilius.
... Wherefore we condemn and anathematize Theodore, formerly bishop of Mopsuestia, and
his impious writings, together with all other heretics, who (as is manifest ...
/.../schaff/the seven ecumenical councils/the decretal letter of pope.htm

The Capitula of the Council.
... If anyone does not anathematize Arius, Eunomius, Macedonius, Apollinaris, Nestorius,
Eutyches and Origen, as well as their impious writings, as also all other ...
/.../schaff/the seven ecumenical councils/the capitula of the council.htm

We Therefore Acknowledge one True God, the one First Cause...
... substance of God. [336] Those who speak either of the Son or of the Holy
Spirit as a creature we anathematize. All other things ...
/.../section xv we therefore acknowledge.htm

Justin Communicates with Christians who Observe the Law not a Few ...
... the law, and do not believe in this Christ before death, shall likewise not be saved,
and especially those who have anathematized and do anathematize this very ...
/.../chapter xlvii justin communicates with christians.htm

Anathematize (4 Occurrences)
...Anathematize (4 Occurrences). Mark 14:71 and he began to anathematize, and to
swear -- 'I have not known this man of whom ye speak;' (YLT). ...
/a/anathematize.htm - 7k

Anathoth (16 Occurrences)

/a/anathoth.htm - 14k

Concourse (4 Occurrences)
... Acts 23:12 And day having come, certain of the Jews having made a concourse, did
anathematize themselves, saying neither to eat nor to drink till they may kill ...
/c/concourse.htm - 8k

Anathema (6 Occurrences)
... Acts 23:14 who having come near to the chief priests and to the elders said, 'With
an anathema we did anathematize ourselves -- to taste nothing till we have ...
/a/anathema.htm - 13k

Anathematise (1 Occurrence)

/a/anathematise.htm - 6k

Mayest (240 Occurrences)
... Acts 23:21 thou, therefore, mayest thou not yield to them, for there lie in wait
for him of them more than forty men, who did anathematize themselves -- not to ...
/m/mayest.htm - 36k

What is the definition of anathema? | GotQuestions.org

Anathematize: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com

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