Eastern Orthodox Church

Definition

The Eastern Orthodox Church is a Christian denomination that is characterized by its adherence to the traditions and teachings of the early church, with a strong emphasis on liturgy and the sacraments. It emerged from the division of Christianity in the early centuries, particularly following the Great Schism of 1054, which separated it from the Roman Catholic Church. The Eastern Orthodox Church is not a single entity but rather a communion of autocephalous (independent) churches, each governed by its own hierarchy and leadership.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Eastern Orthodox Church is composed of several autocephalous churches, including the Greek Orthodox, Russian Orthodox, and Serbian Orthodox churches, each with its own unique traditions.
2. Icons play a significant role in Eastern Orthodox worship and theology, serving as windows to the divine and helping to convey spiritual truths through art.
3. The concept of theosis, or becoming one with God's divine nature, is a central belief in Eastern Orthodoxy, emphasizing personal transformation through faith and participation in the sacraments.
4. The Eastern Orthodox Church uses a liturgical calendar that includes numerous feasts and fasts, reflecting its rich tradition of spirituality and communal worship.
5. Despite historical differences with Roman Catholicism, both traditions share core beliefs such as the importance of the sacraments and adherence to the Nicene Creed.

Review Questions

• How did the Great Schism of 1054 impact the development of the Eastern Orthodox Church?
  • The Great Schism of 1054 was a pivotal event that formally separated the Eastern Orthodox Church from the Roman Catholic Church. This division was fueled by theological disagreements, such as issues concerning papal authority and the Filioque clause in the Nicene Creed. As a result, the Eastern Orthodox Church developed its own distinct traditions, liturgical practices, and ecclesiastical structures while maintaining continuity with early Christian teachings.
• Evaluate the significance of icons within the Eastern Orthodox Church's liturgical practices and beliefs.
  • Icons are immensely significant in Eastern Orthodox worship as they serve as both religious symbols and aids for devotion. They are considered sacred objects that convey spiritual truths and provide believers with a means to connect with divine realities. The veneration of icons reflects deeper theological principles such as the incarnation of Christ and the belief in salvation through participation in God's grace. This practice distinguishes Eastern Orthodoxy from other Christian denominations and highlights its unique approach to spirituality.
• Analyze how the structure of governance within the Eastern Orthodox Church influences its relationship with national identity in various countries.
  • The governance structure of the Eastern Orthodox Church, characterized by its autocephalous nature, significantly influences how it interacts with national identities. Each autocephalous church is often closely tied to specific nations or ethnic groups, fostering a sense of cultural unity among its followers. For instance, Russian Orthodoxy plays a vital role in shaping Russian national identity, while Greek Orthodoxy is integral to Greek culture. This relationship can lead to both support for national movements as well as tensions when political conflicts arise, showcasing how religion intertwines with cultural and national identities within different regions.

Related terms

Great Schism: The division of Christianity in 1054 into the Western Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Orthodox Church, largely due to theological differences and political disputes.

Patriarch: A senior bishop in the Eastern Orthodox Church who holds authority over specific jurisdictions, with the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople considered the first among equals.

Liturgy: The formal ritualistic worship in the Eastern Orthodox Church, which includes the Divine Liturgy, the Eucharist, and various sacraments as central components.