What is "proselytism"

Proselytism \Pros"e*ly*tism\, n. [Cf. F. pros['e]lytisme.]

1. The act or practice of proselyting; the making of converts to a religion or a religious sect, or to any opinion, system, or party.

   They were possessed of a spirit of proselytism in the most fanatical degree.
   --Burke.

2. Conversion to a religion, system, or party.

1650s, from proselyte + -ism.

n. The practice of proselytize or the state of being a proselyte

1. n. the practice of proselytizing

2. the state of being a proselyte; spiritual rebirth resulting from the zeal of crusading advocacy of the gospel

Proselytism is the act of attempting to convert people to another religion or opinion. The word proselytize is derived from the Greek language prefix προσ- (pros-, toward) and the verb ἔρχομαι (érchomai, to come) in the form of προσήλυτος (prosélytos, a new comer). Historically in the Koine Greek Septuagint and New Testament, the word proselyte denoted a gentile who was considering conversion to Judaism. Though the word proselytism originally referred to Early Christianity (and earlier Gentiles such as God-fearers), it now refers to the attempt of any religion or religious individuals to convert people to their beliefs, or any attempt to convert people to a different point of view, religious or not. Proselytism is illegal in some countries.