Josephinism

religious doctrine

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Last updated

June 29, 2026

Quick Summary

Josephinism refers to the religious policies enacted by Holy Roman Emperor Joseph II during his reign in the Habsburg monarchy from 1780 to 1790. These policies aimed to centralize state control over the Roman Catholic Church and promote religious tolerance.12

Key aspects of Josephinism include:
* Church Reform: Joseph II sought to reduce the power and influence of the church, dissolving numerous monasteries not engaged in useful community work like education or healthcare. He also established national training colleges for priests and limited the authority of bishops.12
* Religious Tolerance: Through the Edict of Toleration in 1781, Joseph II granted Lutherans, Calvinists, and Orthodox Christians near equality with Catholics. He also extended rights to Jews, allowing them to enter various trades and attend universities.12
* Secularization: The emperor secularized seminaries for clergy training and attempted to simplify Catholic liturgy. His reforms aimed to make the church serve the state's interests.12

While Joseph II's reforms were extensive, many were reversed after his death due to resistance from traditionalist elements within the monarchy. However, the Edict of Toleration and some monastic reforms remained.12

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Pius VI
…power, subsequently became known as Josephinism. Meanwhile, the church in the Habsburg dominions remained wealthy and influential but subordinate to the state.
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…power, subsequently became known as Josephinism. Meanwhile, the church in the Habsburg dominions remained wealthy and influential but subordinate to the state.
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Christianity
The church and Western states
…state-church concept was established under Josephinism (after Joseph II [reigned 1765–90]) through the dismantling of numerous ecclesiastical privileges. The Eastern Orthodox Church also was drawn into this development under Peter the Great.
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…state-church concept was established under Josephinism (after Joseph II [reigned 1765–90]) through the dismantling of numerous ecclesiastical privileges. The Eastern Orthodox Church also was drawn into this development under Peter the Great.
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Austria
Early reign of Joseph II, 1780–85
In Austrian history the term Josephinism generally means subjecting the Roman Catholic Church in the Habsburg lands to service for the state, but the origins and extent of such subjection have generated controversy. Both Maria Theresa and Joseph were devoutly Roman Catholic, but both also believed in firm state control…
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In Austrian history the term Josephinism generally means subjecting the Roman Catholic Church in the Habsburg lands to service for the state, but the origins and extent of such subjection have generated controversy. Both Maria Theresa and Joseph were devoutly Roman Catholic, but both also believed in firm state control…
Read More