antiscriptural
Definition
- Adjective:
- Opposed to or contradicting scripture: "antiscriptural" describes beliefs, teachings, or actions that are against or inconsistent with sacred writings, particularly the Bible in a Christian context.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- The preacher condemned the new doctrine as antiscriptural, claiming it violated the core teachings of the Bible. (The doctrine was considered opposed to biblical scripture.)
- Many early Christian groups were labeled antiscriptural by orthodox authorities for their unorthodox interpretations. (These groups were seen as opposing established scripture.)
Advanced Usage
"antiscriptural stance": a position or viewpoint that rejects or contradicts sacred texts.
- His antiscriptural stance on marriage caused a rift within the congregation. (His position was against the biblical view of marriage.)
"antiscriptural practices": customs or rituals that violate scriptural commands.
- The missionaries sought to abolish what they considered antiscriptural practices among the local tribes. (Practices that conflicted with biblical teachings.)
Variants and Related Words
Antiscripturalism (noun): the belief or doctrine that opposes or denies the authority of scripture.
- The rise of antiscripturalism in the 18th century challenged traditional religious hierarchies. (The doctrine that scripture is not authoritative.)
Unscriptural (adj): not in accordance with scripture (a near synonym, but less explicitly oppositional).
- Some of the church's traditions are unscriptural but not necessarily antiscriptural. (Not based on scripture, but not actively opposed to it.)
Synonyms
- Unbiblical: not found in or supported by the Bible.
- Heterodox: contrary to accepted religious doctrine (broader than scripture alone).
- Irreligious: opposed to religion in general (not specific to scripture).
Related Idioms
- To go against the grain of scripture: to act in a way that contradicts biblical teachings.
- His decision to ignore the commandments went against the grain of scripture. (His actions contradicted biblical principles.)
Note on Usage
- "Antiscriptural" is a relatively rare and formal term, most commonly used in theological or doctrinal debates. It implies active opposition rather than mere ignorance or lack of biblical basis.