Abstract
This volume offers a rigorous exploration of the doctrine of original sin, a topic that has long stood at the intersection of Eastern and Western Christian theological traditions.
This collection stems from a significant ecumenical study conference held in Vienna, September 15–19, 2021. It brings together scholars from across Europe—representing both Eastern Orthodox and Western Christian perspectives—to engage with the sources and development of the doctrine in their respective traditions.
One of the key features that distinguishes this volume from purely academic works is its ecclesial endorsement. The inclusion of prefaces and salutations from prominent church leaders—Cardinal Christoph Schönborn, representing the Catholic Church, and Metropolitan Hilarion Alfeyev, representing the Russian Orthodox Church at the time of the conference—demonstrates that this project is not solely the domain of theologians or scholars, but one in which the institutional church is deeply invested.
Likewise, the scholars in this volume are not merely addressing their peers in a specialized academic guild; they are speaking to the church itself. This makes the volume more than a contribution to academic theology—it is a work that seeks to influence the life of the church. It reflects a desire for theological reflection that is lived and applied within ecclesial communities. This unique relationship between scholars and church leaders gives the book the potential for tangible change.
Notably, the publication was sponsored by Pro Oriente, an organization renowned for its commitment to fostering ecumenical dialogue and theological engagement. This sponsorship underscores Pro Oriente’s ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between academic scholarship, ecumenism, and ecclesial leadership.
Another distinguishing feature is its multilingual nature, which reflects its ecumenical breadth. The contributions in the volume are written in several languages, including German, English, Italian, and French, making it accessible to a broad range of readers across Europe and beyond.
The volume begins with an introduction by Theresia Hainthaler, offering an insightful overview of the doctrine of original sin across various Christian traditions and perspectives. She provides a clear framework for understanding the complexities explored in the volume and situates the contributions within their broader theological and historical contexts.
The first section focuses on the early Christian Fathers. Irenaeus is analyzed by Jovanović and de Andia, Clement of Alexandria by Platova, and Origen by Arnold, while Morozov studies Methodius of Olympus. Horyacha examines Macarius, Stepień explores the influence of the Platonic tradition, and Argarate highlights perspectives from the Syriac tradition.
The second section turns to the Latin tradition, addressing vitium originis and traducianism. Fokin and Emmenegger discuss Tertullian, Mattei examines Ambrose, and Augustine’s theology is explored by Emmenegger, Karfíková, and Grossi. Husek focuses on Ambrosiaster and Pelagius, while Gonnet addresses the Councils of Orange.
Notably, Mooney’s essay on Eriugena and Mali’s The Torn Tunic of Immortality reveal diversity within the Latin tradition, challenging assumptions of uniformity and highlighting lesser-studied figures and themes. These essays showcase the richness and complexity of Western theological currents.
The third section examines the Greek tradition, presenting a wide array of key figures and texts. Gregory of Nyssa is the subject of contributions by Przyszychowska, Maspero, and Vigorelli. The Vita Antonii is analyzed by Lytynenko, while Cyril of Alexandria is explored by Stavrou. Diadochus of Photike is studied by Huian, and Romanos the Melodist is discussed by Kourempeles. Maximus the Confessor is the focus of essays by Kapriev and Kochańczyk-Bonińska, and Cyril the Philosopher is examined by Christov. Theodore of Mopsuestia is included in this section through the work of Riboloff, adding an important yet often overlooked voice to the discourse. The section concludes with Martzelos’s essay, which offers a theological conceptualization of inherited sin within the Eastern Orthodox tradition.
Modern systematic theologians often reinterpret original sin as the universal failure of humanity to achieve perfection, a perspective that resonates with contemporary ethical and existential concerns. While this interpretation is valid and a valuable reminder, it diverges from the historical understanding of the doctrine. The volume seeks to recover the historical trajectory of the doctrine, emphasizing the debates, tensions, and alternative visions that shaped its development. It resists the tendency to abstract and repurpose the concept for modern relevance without acknowledging its historical roots. Ideas have histories, and this volume takes that history seriously, offering a comprehensive exploration of original sin’s evolution across Christian traditions.
The volume serves as a reminder of the richness and complexity of the doctrine’s historical debates, offering a crucial corrective to overly modernized readings and inviting deeper engagement with the roots of this pivotal doctrine.
For those engaged in ecumenical dialogue and historical theology, this book is a vital resource. Its broad scope, scholarly rigor, and ecclesial backing make it a significant contribution to contemporary discussions on original sin and its implications for human nature, grace, and salvation. More importantly, it is a work that reflects the real possibility of theological progress in the ongoing journey toward Christian unity.