Theosis

Definition

Theosis is the transformative process in which a human being becomes one with God, often seen as achieving divinization or becoming godlike. This concept is central to Eastern Orthodox Christianity, where it emphasizes the belief that through divine grace, individuals can participate in the divine nature and attain spiritual perfection. Theosis connects to broader themes of salvation and spiritual transformation within Christian doctrine.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Theosis is rooted in biblical passages such as 2 Peter 1:4, which speaks of becoming partakers of the divine nature.
2. In Eastern Orthodox theology, theosis is achieved through participation in the sacraments, prayer, and ascetic practices that foster a deeper connection with God.
3. Unlike some Western Christian denominations that may focus on justification by faith alone, Eastern Orthodoxy emphasizes the transformational aspect of salvation through theosis.
4. The concept of theosis underscores the importance of community and the Church as a means to facilitate spiritual growth and divine union.
5. Theosis is not seen as becoming equal to God but rather as a process of becoming fully human in alignment with God's will and purpose.

Review Questions

• How does the concept of theosis reflect the differences between Eastern Orthodox Christianity and Western Christian views on salvation?
  • The concept of theosis highlights a significant difference between Eastern Orthodox Christianity and Western Christian views on salvation. While Western traditions often emphasize justification by faith alone, Eastern Orthodoxy focuses on the transformative process through which individuals become united with God. Theosis involves not only faith but also active participation in sacraments, prayer, and ascetic practices, leading to spiritual growth and transformation into a godlike state.
• Discuss how divine grace plays a role in the process of theosis according to Eastern Orthodox beliefs.
  • Divine grace is foundational to the process of theosis in Eastern Orthodox beliefs. It is through God's unmerited favor that individuals are enabled to partake in the divine nature. This grace empowers believers to engage in transformative practices such as prayer, fasting, and participation in sacraments, ultimately leading them closer to God. The relationship between divine grace and theosis illustrates how salvation is viewed as an ongoing journey rather than a one-time event.
• Evaluate the implications of theosis for understanding human potential and spirituality within Christian teachings.
  • Theosis presents profound implications for understanding human potential and spirituality within Christian teachings. It suggests that humans are called to attain a level of spiritual perfection that reflects God's nature, emphasizing that every individual has the potential to experience deep communion with the Divine. This belief challenges followers to pursue their spiritual growth actively and engage with their faith meaningfully, fostering a sense of hope and purpose while redefining what it means to be truly human in relation to God.

Related terms

Salvation: The act of being saved from sin and its consequences, often through faith in Jesus Christ, leading to eternal life.

Divine Grace: The free and unmerited favor of God, which enables individuals to experience salvation and transformation.

Sanctification: The process of becoming holy, involving the moral and spiritual growth of an individual through the work of the Holy Spirit.