Antiochene Theria in the Writings of Theodore of Mopsuestia and Theodoret of Cyrus

by Richard J. Perhai

Overview

Biblical scholars have often contrasted the exegesis of the early church fathers from the eastern region and school of Syrian Antioch against that of the school of Alexandria. The Antiochenes have often been described as strictly historical-literal exegetes in contrast to the allegorical exegesis of the Alexandrians. Patristic scholars now challenge those stereotypes, some even arguing that few differences existed between the two groups.

This work agrees that both schools were concerned with a literal and spiritual reading. But, it also tries to show, through analysis of Theodore and Theodorets exegesis and use of the term theria, that how they integrated the literal-theological readings often remained quite distinct from the Alexandrians. For the Antiochenes, the term theria did not mean allegory, but instead stood for a range of perceptionsprophetic, christological, and contemporary. It is in these insights that we find the deep wisdom to help modern readers interpret Scripture theologically.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9781451488005
Publisher:	1517 Media
Publication date:	03/01/2015
Series:	Emerging Scholars
Pages:	549
Product dimensions:	5.90(w) x 8.90(h) x 1.30(d)

About the Author

Richard J. Perhai is academic dean and professor of Bible and theology at Kiev Theological Seminary in Kiev, Ukraine. He is also a missionary with SEND International, serving in Ukraine since 2001.

Table of Contents

Acknowledgements ix

Abbreviations xiii

1 Introduction: Why Study Antiochene Theoria? 1

2 Theoria in Theodore's and Theodoret's Commentaries 33

3 Research on Antiochene Theoria since 1991 113

4 Issues and Insights Surrounding Antiochene Theoria 205

5 Theoria and Theological Interpretation of Scripture 331

6 Conclusion: Relevance for Modern Theological Exegesis 409

Bibliography 459

Index of Names and Subjects 513

Index of Scripture References 541