heathenism

[ hee-thuh-niz-uhm ]

/ ˈhi ðəˌnɪz əm /

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noun

a belief or practice of heathens; idolatry.

barbaric morals or behavior; barbarism.

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Origin of heathenism

First recorded in 1595–1605; heathen + -ism

The influence of the Jews had helped also to undermine heathenism and thus to prepare the ground for Christianity.
Gospel Philosophy|J. H. Ward
When the absurdities of heathenism became apparent, men fell into other superstitions.
Gospel Philosophy|J. H. Ward
A striking advance had taken place of late years, and a severe contest was going on between heathenism and Christianity.
Robert Moffat|David J. Deane
Such was the effect produced on Rusticus's mind by this miracle, that he forsook heathenism and became a Christian.
The Mysteries of All Nations|James Grant

He seemed like the minister of some dark rite of heathenism, preparing to offer up a victim to the Moloch of his superstition.
The Portland Sketch Book|Various