Heresy, Orthodoxy, and The Turbulence of the In-between

Recently I heard the phrase “Treason, like beauty is in the eye of the beholder”… I’d be lying if I said it wasn’t a quote from Star Trek DS9. Yet, regardless of the source, there is an interesting observation here, so many things are objective in our world.

This simple thought reminded me of something of my lecturers once said to a fellow student in a break… “One man’s heresy is another man’s orthodoxy” (Thank you Paul Roberts). The saying "beauty is in the eye of the beholder" suggests that what we find beautiful is subjective and influenced by our personal experiences and preferences. But can this subjectivity extend to more profound concepts like religious truth?

Some argue that, like beauty, heresy (beliefs deemed incompatible with religious doctrine) and orthodoxy (established and accepted religious beliefs) are also subjective. They point to the diversity of interpretations and the constant evolution of religious thought throughout history. What was considered heretical in one era might become accepted dogma in another.

However, others argue that core religious truths transcend individual perspectives. They point to the existence of sacred texts, established doctrines, and the guidance of religious authorities who help maintain the integrity of faith traditions.

Ultimately, the question of whether heresy and orthodoxy are subjective remains a complex debate. Whether you find the beauty and truth or apparent orthodoxy, or the distaste of heresy in something might depend on your perspective, but that doesn't negate the existence of objective standards or the importance of seeking truth within the framework of rigorous consideration and sincere conviction.

Heresy to one is orthodoxy to another. True theologians navigate the turbulent and uncomfortable waters outside of the mundane safety of their comfort zones.

Heresy, after all, is much like beauty, it is in the eye of the beholder.