Arnoldist

religious sect

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June 18, 2026

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The term "Arnoldist" refers to followers of Arnold of Brescia, a radical religious reformer from the 12th century. Arnold of Brescia was known for his strong criticism of the wealth and corruption within the clergy. He also vehemently opposed the temporal power of the popes, advocating for the church to relinquish its material possessions and political influence. His followers, the Arnoldists, shared these beliefs, postulating an incompatibility between spiritual authority and material wealth. Arnold of Brescia's teachings led to his condemnation as a heretic by the church, and he was eventually executed in 1155. The Arnoldists were later condemned in 1184.12

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Arnold of Brescia
His followers, known as Arnoldists, postulated an incompatibility between spiritual power and material possessions and rejected any temporal powers of the church. They were condemned in 1184 at the Synod of Verona, Republic of Venice. Arnold’s personality has been distorted through modern poets and dramatists and Italian politicians. He…
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His followers, known as Arnoldists, postulated an incompatibility between spiritual power and material possessions and rejected any temporal powers of the church. They were condemned in 1184 at the Synod of Verona, Republic of Venice. Arnold’s personality has been distorted through modern poets and dramatists and Italian politicians. He…
Read More