‘...becoming everything that God is...’ Epektasis, theosis and kenosis in Sophrony (Sakharov)
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2024-06-24
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en
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St Sophrony (Sakharov) (1896 -1993) is an Orthodox ascetic monk and scholar, whose influence is growing in the Orthodox world and beyond. In this thesis, his understanding of the notion of epektasis as spiritual growth is investigated and placed within the wider framework of his experiences and teachings. It is argued that in this context, Maximus the Confessor is his main influence, supplemented by the 20th century Russian school of theologians, notably Sergei Bulgakov. Sophrony’s personal spiritual life was characterized by periods of despair and Godforsakenness. In contrast to the more common view, the vacillating nature and kenotic dimension of man’s spiritual quest are characteristic elements in Sophrony’s understanding of “...becoming everything that God is ... .”
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Faculteit der Filosofie, Theologie en Religiewetenschappen