Orthopraxy
Correct conduct, both ethical and liturgical, over correct belief.
Orthopraxy refers to correct conduct—both ethical and liturgical—in the study of religion, standing in contrast to faith or grace. It differs from orthodoxy, which centers on correct belief. The term is a neoclassical compound from the Greek *orthos* ("straight") and *praxis* ("action"), first recorded in 1851. Orthopraxy emphasizes family, cultural integrity, tradition, sacrificial offerings, purity, ethical systems, and their enforcement, rather than codified beliefs or strict ritualism.
In Hinduism, orthopraxy and ritualism often overlap. Judaism and Christianity are considered both religions and orthopraxies, as they guide adherents in practice and belief.
**Etymology** The word derives from Greek *orthos* ("straight") and *praxis* ("action"). First used in 1851, it appears in two forms: orthopraxis and orthopraxy, with orthopraxy being older and more common.
**Types of Orthopraxy**
**Christianity** Though traditionally seen as primarily orthodoxical (e.g., the Nicene Creed's "I believe in ..."), some Christian denominations—from Catholic to Evangelical—now describe their faith as both orthodoxical and orthopraxic. The idea is that correct belief compels correct action, and incorrect action stems from incorrect beliefs. Prosperity theology, found in charismatic and Pentecostal traditions, takes this further, teaching that correct belief and behavior bring material reward and physical healing, and are necessary for receiving God's grace. This concept of reciprocity is common in traditional or ethnic religions, such as ancient Greek religion, but is limited to correct behavior rather than any single theological idea. The applicability of biblical law in Christianity is disputed; most Christians hold that some or all of the Ten Commandments remain binding or are reinstituted in the law of Christ. A minority are Torah-observant, while others hold antinomian or Christian anarchistic views.
**Eastern Christianity** Praxis is central to the Byzantine tradition, observed by the Eastern Orthodox Church and some Eastern Catholic Churches. It underlies the understanding of faith and works as conjoint, without separation. The importance of action is captured in Saint Maximus the Confessor’s dictum: "Theology without action is the theology of demons." Union with God, to which Christians believe Jesus invited humanity, requires not just faith but correct pr
- field
- Study of religion
- known_for
- Emphasis on correct conduct over correct belief
- etymology
- Greek orthos ('straight') + praxis ('action')
- first_used
- 1851
- related_terms
- Orthopraxis (variant), orthodoxy (contrast)
Lore & Background
Orthopraxy is distinguished from orthodoxy, which emphasizes correct belief, and from ritualism, which centers on strict adherence to prescribed rites. While orthodoxies use codified beliefs such as creeds, orthopraxy is focused on issues of family, cultural integrity, transmission of tradition, sacrificial offerings, purity concerns, ethical systems, and their enforcement. In Hinduism, orthopraxy and ritualism are often interconnected. Judaism and Christianity are considered both religions and orthopraxies, as they guide adherents in both practice and belief.
Reader's Guide
Orthopraxy's significance lies in its role across multiple religious traditions. In Christianity, although traditionally seen as orthodoxical, some denominations now describe themselves as both orthodoxical and orthopraxic, holding that correct belief compels correct action. In Eastern Christianity, praxis is key to understanding the Byzantine tradition, where theology without action is considered the theology of demons. Hinduism places emphasis on orthopraxy through sanātana dharma, with ritual (puja) playing a central role. Islam generally stresses orthopraxy over orthodoxy, as the day of judgment is one of works. Judaism attaches primary importance to the practice of the mitzvot, with each daily act complying with ethical and ritual teachings. Neopagan movements such as British Traditional Wicca are highly orthopraxic, defined by traditional practice rather than shared beliefs. The term thus provides a framework for understanding religions that prioritize correct action alongside or above correct belief.
Did You Know?
- The term orthopraxy was first used in 1851.
- Orthopraxy comes from the Greek orthos ('straight') and praxis ('action').
- In Eastern Christianity, praxis is associated with worship and the dictum 'Theology without action is the theology of demons.'
- British Traditional Wicca is highly orthopraxic, with traditions defined by what is traditionally done rather than shared beliefs.
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