Heresy vs. Witchcraft — What's the Difference?

Heresy is any belief or theory that is strongly at variance with established beliefs or customs, in particular the accepted beliefs of a church or religious organization. The term is usually used in reference to violations of important religious teachings, but is also used of views strongly opposed to any generally accepted ideas.

Witchcraft is the practice of what the practitioner ("witch") believes to be supernatural skills and abilities, such as the casting of spells and the performance of magical rituals. Witchcraft is a broad term that varies culturally and societally, and thus can be difficult to define with precision.

Belief or opinion contrary to orthodox religious (especially Christian) doctrine

Magic; sorcery.

An opinion or a doctrine at variance with established religious beliefs, especially dissension from or denial of Roman Catholic dogma by a professed believer or baptized church member.

Wicca.

Adherence to such dissenting opinion or doctrine.

A magical or irresistible influence, attraction, or charm.

A controversial or unorthodox opinion or doctrine, as in politics, philosophy, or science.

The practice of witches; magic, sorcery, or the use of supernatural powers to influence or predict events.

Adherence to such controversial or unorthodox opinion.

Something, such as an advanced technology, that seems almost magical.

(religion) a doctrine held by a member of a religion at variance with established religious beliefs

The practices or art of witches.

A controversial or unorthodox opinion held by a member of a group, as in politics, philosophy or science.

Sorcery; enchantments; intercourse with evil spirits.

An opinion held in opposition to the established or commonly received doctrine, and tending to promote a division or party, as in politics, literature, philosophy, etc.; - usually, but not necessarily, said in reproach.

Power more than natural; irresistible influence.

Religious opinion opposed to the authorized doctrinal standards of any particular church, especially when tending to promote schism or separation; lack of orthodox or sound belief; rejection of, or erroneous belief in regard to, some fundamental religious doctrine or truth; heterodoxy.

Adherence to or the practice of Wicca. In this sense the term does not necessarily include attempts at practice of magic, other than by prayers to the deities.

An offense against Christianity, consisting in a denial of some essential doctrine, which denial is publicly avowed, and obstinately maintained.

The art of sorcery

Any opinions or doctrines at variance with the official or orthodox position

A belief that rejects the orthodox tenets of a religion