Legal Definitions - anathema

Definition: An anathema is a curse that is pronounced by a religious authority, which prevents a person from receiving communion and being in contact with members of the church. It is a form of excommunication.

Example: The bishop pronounced an anathema on the priest who had been accused of embezzlement.

Explanation: In this example, the bishop has cursed the priest and barred him from receiving communion and being in contact with other members of the church. This is a severe punishment that is reserved for serious offenses.

Example: The church declared an anathema on the heretic who denied the divinity of Christ.

Explanation: In this example, the church has cursed the heretic and barred him from receiving communion and being in contact with other members of the church. This is a punishment for a serious theological offense.