Theotokos

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Bogorodichni ikoni

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Mary, mother of Jesus on the throne

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Virgin salus populi romani

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Encaustic Virgin

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Theotokos (from the Greek Θεοτόκος, Theotókos) translates to "God-bearer" or "Mother of God". The title is used primarily in the Eastern Orthodox Church, Oriental Orthodox churches, and in the Catholic Church to refer to Mary, the mother of Jesus. The doctrine associated with this title asserts Mary's role as the mother of God incarnate and is a fundamental element in Christian theology, particularly in Christology.

History and Development

The title Theotokos has its roots in the early Christian tradition and was officially adopted at the Third Ecumenical Council held at Ephesus in 431 AD. This council was convened primarily to address the teachings of Nestorius, the Patriarch of Constantinople, who contested the use of the title Theotokos arguing that Mary could only be considered the mother of Christ's human nature, not his divine nature. The council, however, affirmed the unity of Christ's divine and human natures and proclaimed Mary as Theotokos, underscoring her role in the Incarnation.

Theological Significance

The affirmation of Mary as Theotokos is pivotal in Christian theology as it underscores the belief in Jesus Christ being fully God and fully man. By acknowledging Mary as the Mother of God, the church affirms the hypostatic union—the union of Christ's human and divine natures. This title also highlights the significance of Mary in salvation history, as through her, God became incarnate.

Liturgical Celebrations

In the Christian liturgical calendar, several feasts are dedicated to the Theotokos, celebrating her role in the mystery of the Incarnation and her veneration as the Mother of God. Among these are the Feast of the Annunciation, celebrated on March 25, and the Feast of the Dormition (or Assumption) of the Theotokos, celebrated on August 15 in the Eastern Orthodox Church and in the Catholic Church.

Iconography

In Christian iconography, the Theotokos is often depicted in a manner that emphasizes her role as the Mother of God. Icons such as the Hodegetria, where Mary is shown pointing to Jesus as the source of salvation, and the Eleusa, depicting a tender moment between mother and child, are venerated in many Christian traditions.

Controversies and Ecumenical Dialogue

The title and role of the Theotokos have been subjects of theological debate and controversy within Christianity, particularly between the Eastern Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, and Catholic Churches on one side, and some Protestant denominations on the other, which may not use the title "Theotokos" but acknowledge Mary's role as the mother of Jesus. Ecumenical dialogues have sought to address these differences, focusing on the understanding of Mary's place in Christian theology and her veneration.

See Also

• Mariology
• Ecumenical Council
• Nestorianism
• Christological Controversy