Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

docetism

Noun

/ˈdōsəˌtizəm/

Definition

Docetism is a belief that emphasizes the apparent or illusionary nature of Christ’s physical body and suffering. It asserts that Jesus did not actually have a physical form, but only seemed to exist in a corporeal state.

Examples

Docetism was a belief held by certain Gnostic sects in the early centuries of Christianity.
The rejection of docetism was significant in establishing the orthodox understanding of Christ’s nature.

Meaning

In the context of early Christian theology, docetism suggests that Jesus’ human experiences, including his passion and death, were not real but were rather an illusion or a manifestation.