Definition

1. Noun:
   • The tendency, within Protestantism, to divide into distinct religious denominations or to promote such divisions: This refers to the historical and theological process of forming separate organized religious groups, each with its own specific doctrines and practices.
   • A narrow-minded adherence to a particular sect, party, or denomination: This describes an attitude of rigid, often exclusive, loyalty to one's own religious group, frequently accompanied by intolerance toward others.

Usage Examples

• Noun:
  • The history of Christianity in America is marked by a strong spirit of denominationalism, leading to hundreds of Protestant groups.
  • His denominationalism prevented him from appreciating the valuable traditions of other faith communities.
  • Theologians debate whether denominationalism represents healthy diversity or harmful fragmentation within the church.

Advanced Usage

• As a sociological or historical concept: The term is often used in academic discussions about religious history, sociology, and ecumenism (the movement promoting unity among Christian churches).
  • The study focused on the rise of denominationalism in the 19th century.
• In a critical context: It is frequently used to criticize excessive division and lack of cooperation.
  • The pastor spoke against the denominationalism that divides the local Christian community.

Variants and Related Words

• Denominational (adj): Relating to or characteristic of a particular religious denomination.
  • They attend a denominational school.
• Denomination (n): A recognized autonomous branch of the Christian Church.
  • The Baptist and Methodist denominations will hold a joint conference.
• Non-denominational (adj): Not restricted to or associated with a particular religious denomination.
  • The chapel offers non-denominational services.

Synonyms

• Sectarianism: Excessive attachment to a particular sect or party, especially in religion.
• Partisanship (in a religious context): Bias in favor of a particular group.
• Factionalism: The state of being divided into factions (groups within a larger organization).

Related Phrases and Concepts

• Inter-denominational: Involving different religious denominations.
  • An inter-denominational prayer meeting.
• Doctrinal exclusivism: The belief that only one's own religious doctrines are correct.

Related Idioms

While not a direct idiom, the concept is related to the phrase: - "To be blinded by one's own creed": To be so devoted to the specific beliefs of one's group that one cannot see value in others' perspectives. This captures the negative, narrow-minded aspect of denominationalism.

Noun

1. the tendency, in Protestantism, to separate into religious denominations or to advocate such separations
2. a narrow-minded adherence to a particular sect or party or denomination
   • he condemned religious sectarianism