Apostasy ( /əˈpɒstəsi/; Greek: ἀποστασία (apostasia), 'a defection or revolt', from ἀπό, apo, 'away, apart', στάσις, stasis, 'stand, 'standing') is the formal disaffiliation from or abandonment or renunciation of a religion by a person. One who commits apostasy (or who apostatises) is known as an apostate. These terms have a pejorative implication in everyday use. The term apostasy is used by sociologists to mean renunciation and criticism of, or opposition to, a person's former religion, in a technical sense and without pejorative connotation.
The term is sometimes also used metaphorically to refer to renunciation of a non-religious belief or cause, such as a political party, brain trust, or, facetiously, a sports team.
Apostasy is generally not a self-definition[citation needed]: very few former believers call themselves apostates because of the pejorative implications of the term.
Many religious groups and some states punish apostates. Apostates may be shunned by the members of their former religious group or subjected to formal or informal punishment. This may be the official policy of the religious group or may be the action of its members. Certain types of churches may in certain circumstances excommunicate the apostate, while some religious scriptures demand the death penalty for apostates.
You used to spread your wings only when no one was looking
And when you finally trusted me enough to reveal them
I slowly ripped them off
What have I done
Who now will carry me to heaven when this life is over
Eternally
I am unforgiven
We've come to love without faith
But I am only human
And so you have come to be
What will you do now that you're one of us
Savage
And selfish with love
Always fighting to not be alone
Just remember I'm on your side
Fighting to attain the same goals