Challenging refers to questioning or expressing doubts about established beliefs or practices. In the context of the Massachusetts Bay Colony, challenging religious orthodoxy meant questioning the accepted religious teachings and practices of the colony.
Related terms
Dissenters: People who disagreed with or challenged the dominant beliefs or practices of a particular group or society.
Heresy: Holding beliefs that go against official religious doctrines or teachings.
Excommunication: The act of formally excluding someone from participating in religious activities or being a member of a religious community due to their challenging beliefs.