In the first part of this work, the various communication channels of Spinozan ideas are presented, followed by an examination of the reactions to Spinoza's thinking. The term Spinozism was available to indicate deviations from traditional thinking. The analysis of the usage of this term shows that Spinozism was not used as an arbitrarily applicable heretical label, but was reserved for identity-theoretical and deterministic modes of thought. The second part addresses the debate over the meaning and correct understanding of Spinoza, which took place in the 1780s. Through systematically oriented individual studies, the different positions, particularly of the lesser-known authors, are reconstructed.