While in dialogue over the concept of theosis in another post, Incarnational Implications, a new topic has arisen. Jason asked, “Were his [Athanasius'] ideas influenced by secular contemporary philosophers?”
Jason, I contacted Dr. Bill Ury, Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at Wesley Biblical Seminary, about this issue to get some professional insight. My question was as follows:
Dr. Ury,
As one who specializes in the history of Christian thought, could you give me your thoughts on a particular issue. The question is if, or to what extent, Saint Athanasius was influenced by the contemporary philosophies of his day. I know Athanasius, as well as the Cappadocians, used controversial terms of their day that had previously been rejected by the church. I know that he was heavily influenced by the founder of Egyptian monasticism, Anthony the Great, and even more so by Bishop Alexander. But what other forces shaped his thinking and Christological/soteriological development? I know this is a very general question and I would be more than happy with a very general response.
Dr. Ury replied:
Sean,
Anyone with an Alexandrian address had the influence of Philo, Origen and their various views of Hellenistic philosophy to contend with. Platonism in its Porphyrian and Plotinian expressions impressed him abit but he soundly rejected Epicurean, and Gnostic excrescences. But his being raised in the Church with this background brought him to his philosophical training with a bit more criticism than the typical Alexandrian thinker. With the Melitians and the Arians plying their trade he was ‘hemmed in’ by having to respond to heresy rather than to be more creative.-used with permission
While you “Google” those new terms, consider whether or not this answers your question.
Sean,
Dr. Ury’s statement satisfied me. The names Philo and Origen raised red flags in my mind (Origen seemed to me to get more gnosticized as he aged), but Dr. Ury responding that Athanasius was critical of this influence helped set me more at peace with Athanasius’ background. It makes sense that Athanasius can have a secular influence but react against it instead of in favor of it.
Thanks for taking the time to do that. It may lead me to further study on Athanasius. Would Ron be willing to lead me toward some sources?
I’m sure that Ron would be more than happy to offer some suggestions, especially since his area of specialty is Church History. You can e-mail him by clicking on his profile on the right-hand side of our home page.