What does Heretic exactly mean?

[Vivaldi]

When I write "Heretic" in dictionary, it says a lot of meanings.

Does the word "Heretic" not have exact meaning?

I don't believe in religions. Does it mean I am an Heretic?

[purplepoppy]

It's someone who believes in heresies rather than the approved Christian teaching. For example if you believe it's OK to work on a Sunday or let women lead religious services you could be branded a heretic.

It's not really a word used much these days and historically it meant pretty much anything you wanted it to mean. If those in power preferred one passage in the bible and you another then it was off to the bonfire with you.

[Vivaldi]

An atheist can't be a Heretic then

[purplepoppy]

No they would simply be an atheist.

[DryGermanGuy]

It means you’re not being true to the rules, rites and dogmas of a religion. For example, Sunni and Shia might see each other as heretics and both might see the Alawites as heretics.

[Vivaldi]

An atheist is also a Heretic?

[DryGermanGuy]

No, from Muslims‘ point of view these are infidels or kuffar.

[Vivaldi]

From muslims' point of view, anybody who is not muslim a kuffar.

[Fromdusktilldawn]

Hmm not sure, if you something very disrespectful and blasphemic to a certain religion

[Vivaldi]

An atheist is heretic by being an atheist as well?