Orthodoxy

Orthodoxy refers to adherence to correct or accepted creeds, especially in religion. In the Christian sense, the term means "conforming to the Christian faith as represented in the creeds of the early Church." The first seven ecumenical councils were held between the years of 325 and 787 with the aim of formalizing accepted doctrines.

Definition and etymology

The word orthodoxy, from the Greek ortho ('right', 'correct') and doxa ('thought', 'teaching'), is typically used to mean the correct theological or doctrinal observance of religion, as determined by some overseeing body. The term did not convent into use in English until the 17th century, when it was applied by Sir Thomas Browne to Christian beliefs and practices.

Varieties of orthodoxy in Christianity

In the context of Christianity, the term orthodoxy is used to refer to the body of doctrines which were formulated in the early ecumenical councils. These doctrines, collectively known as the Nicene Creed, represent the benchmark for orthodoxy in most Christian churches.

Eastern Orthodoxy

Eastern Orthodoxy is the large body of Christians who follow the faith and practices that were defined by the first seven ecumenical councils. The word is used to contrast with Roman Catholic and Protestant forms of Christianity, as they accept the teachings of the first seven councils, but do not follow the traditions of the Eastern Orthodox Church.

Oriental Orthodoxy

Oriental Orthodoxy refers to the communion of Eastern Christian Churches that recognize only three ecumenical councils — the First Council of Nicaea, the First Council of Constantinople and the Council of Ephesus. They rejected the dogmatic definitions of the Council of Chalcedon.

See also

• Heresy
• Heterodoxy
• Iconoclasm
• Orthopraxy

External links

• OrthodoxWiki

Orthodoxy Resources
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