Apostasy is derived from the Greek word "apostasia," meaning a formal abandonment or renunciation of one's faith or religious beliefs. In a biblical context, it refers to the act of turning away from God, rejecting previously held beliefs, or falling away from the faith. This concept is often addressed in the New Testament, where it warns against the dangers of forsaking one's commitment to God and the teachings of Christ. Apostasy is viewed as a serious spiritual condition with implications for one's relationship with God and salvation.

In the context of the movie "Apostasy," which focuses on the lives of Jehovah's Witnesses, examples of apostasy include actions such as rejecting the core beliefs of the faith, openly criticizing or questioning its doctrines, and associating with individuals deemed as spiritually unclean by the community. Specific instances might involve a member choosing to celebrate holidays that are forbidden, seeking medical treatment that contradicts religious beliefs, or publicly denouncing the organization's teachings. These actions can result in shunning and social ostracism within the community.

In the context of the film "Apostasy," which explores the experiences of Jehovah's Witnesses, apostasy refers to the act of abandoning or renouncing one's faith. Within various religious frameworks, particularly within Jehovah's Witnesses and some other Christian denominations, apostasy is considered a serious sin. It can lead to excommunication and shunning, as it's viewed as a rejection of core beliefs. Whether it is deemed a "mortal sin" specifically depends on the theological perspective of the individual faith tradition.

The Great Apostasy, in a scriptural context, refers to a significant turning away from the true teachings of Christianity. It is often linked to prophecies in the New Testament, particularly in 2 Thessalonians 2:3, which speaks of a falling away before the Second Coming of Christ. This period is characterized by widespread rejection of faith, corruption of doctrines, and the establishment of false teachings. In various Christian beliefs, it symbolizes a time when believers stray from the foundational truths of the gospel.