Theological Word of the Day

(Greek ana, “again” or “twice” + Greek baptizo, “baptize”)

A term derived from the Greek for “re-baptizer,” and used to refer to those groups associated with the so-called “Radical Reformation” of the 16th century. The Anabaptists were labeled according to their belief in believers’ baptism, but this practice has deeper roots in their general rejection of tradition altogether. Groups associated with the Anabaptist movement include: Amish, Hutterites, Mennonites, Church of the Brethren, and Brethren in Christ. Early leaders of the movement include Menno Simons, Conrad Grebel, Felix Manz, George Blaurock, and Müntzer. Because of their rejection of infant baptism and because many of those in the movement were less than orthodox, Anabaptists were heavily persecuted during the 16th and into the 17th century.