Final answer:
A key attribute of heresy in Christianity is the act of holding and promoting beliefs or practices that deviate from the officially established doctrines of the church. Debates around the Holy Trinity and the nature of Christ often led to the labeling of dissenting groups as heretics. The persistence of diverse beliefs across different regions continually challenged the orthodox dogma and authority of the church.
Step-by-step explanation:
What became a key attribute of heresy? In the context of Christianity, heresy is defined by the act of going against the official teachings of the church. As the church sought to establish orthodoxy, or 'correct belief,' it was challenged by the emergence of divergent theologies. The process of defining orthodoxy led to certain beliefs being branded as heretical, which in turn created division within Christian communities. Theologians in the second and third centuries debated the nature of the divine, with the concept of the Holy Trinity emerging as a point of contention. Groups like the Arians and Donatists who held beliefs contrary to the prevailing orthodoxy were labeled heretics.
Furthermore, the Council of Nicaea and the Council of Chalcedon were pivotal in crystallizing orthodox Christian beliefs and defining heresy by underscoring the nature of Jesus Christ's divinity and humanity. Cultural and linguistic diversity within the Christian faith often exacerbated these doctrinal disputes, and practices seen as unorthodox continued to persist in different regions. Ascetic movements and anticlerical sentiments, such as those expressed by the Spiritual Franciscans and Lollards, highlighted the ongoing challenges to ecclesiastical authority and paved the way for the Protestant Reformation.
Throughout history, the key attribute of heresy has been its association with beliefs and practices that deviate from those promulgated by church authorities. Such deviations, whether in doctrine or practice, often resulted in severe repercussions for those who were accused of heresy.