Catharism

/ˈkæθəˌrɪzəm/ noun

Definition

The religious doctrines and practices of the Cathars, a medieval heretical sect that believed in dualism and spiritual purity.

Etymology

From 'Cathari' (the name of the sect) plus the suffix '-ism' (a system of beliefs). Emerged in the 12th century in southern France.

Kelly Says

Catharism spread so rapidly in medieval France that it became a political and religious threat—the Cathar Crusade killed tens of thousands and fundamentally changed European religious politics.

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