Oriental Orthodoxy

Oriental Orthodoxy

Oriental Orthodoxy is a branch of Christianity that represents a group of Eastern Christian churches adhering to the Christological definition established by the Council of Chalcedon in 451 AD. These churches are distinct from the Eastern Orthodox Church and are sometimes referred to as "non-Chalcedonian" or "Miaphysite" churches. The term "Oriental" refers to the Eastern origins of these churches, primarily in the Middle East, Africa, and India.

Historical Background

The schism between the Oriental Orthodox churches and the rest of Christendom occurred due to differences in Christological doctrine. The Council of Chalcedon declared that Christ is in two natures, fully divine and fully human, united in one person "without confusion, change, division, or separation." However, the Oriental Orthodox churches rejected this definition, adhering instead to the doctrine of Miaphysitism, which holds that in the one person of Jesus Christ, divinity and humanity are united in one "nature" ("physis") without separation, but also without confusion.

The Oriental Orthodox communion includes the following major churches:

• Coptic Orthodox Church: Based in Egypt, it is one of the oldest Christian communities in the world.
• Armenian Apostolic Church: The national church of Armenia, it was the first branch of Christianity to become a state religion.
• Syriac Orthodox Church: Originating in Antioch, it has a significant presence in the Middle East and India.
• Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church: One of the largest Oriental Orthodox churches, it has a rich tradition and history in Ethiopia.
• Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church: Closely related to the Ethiopian church, it became autocephalous in 1993.
• Malankara Orthodox Syrian Church: Based in India, it traces its origins to the evangelistic activity of Thomas the Apostle.

Theology and Doctrine

The Oriental Orthodox churches share a common theological heritage, emphasizing the unity of Christ's nature. They reject the Chalcedonian definition as a misunderstanding of the true nature of Christ. Instead, they uphold the teachings of Cyril of Alexandria, who articulated the concept of "one incarnate nature of the Word of God."

The liturgical practices of the Oriental Orthodox churches are diverse, reflecting their cultural and historical contexts. However, they share a common emphasis on the sacraments, particularly the Eucharist, as central to their worship and spiritual life.

Modern Developments

In recent years, there have been efforts to bridge the theological divide between the Oriental Orthodox churches and other Christian denominations. Dialogues with the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church have led to a greater understanding and recognition of shared beliefs, despite historical differences.

The Oriental Orthodox churches continue to play a significant role in the Christian communities of the Middle East, Africa, and the Indian subcontinent, often facing challenges such as political instability and religious persecution.

Also see

• Eastern Orthodoxy
• Council of Chalcedon
• Miaphysitism
• Cyril of Alexandria
• Christianity in the Middle East