Knowra Theodoret of Cyrrhus Theodoret of Cyrrhus Theodoret of Cyrrhus (c. 393–c. 458) was a Christian bishop and theologian whose biblical commentaries and defenses of Antiochene Christology shaped fifth-century debates.
Cyril of Alexandria : The patriarch of Alexandria from 412 to 444, known for his role in the Christological controversies and the Council of Ephesus. Cyril condemned teachings Theodoret defended, making their rivalry central to the controversy.
Council of Ephesus : A church council held in 431 that condemned Nestorius and affirmed Mary’s title Theotokos. Its condemnations set the terms of the Christological dispute in which Theodoret intervened.
Antiochene School : A tradition of Christian biblical interpretation and theology associated with Antioch, emphasizing historical and grammatical readings. Theodoret is a major representative of its interpretive and Christological approaches.
Commentary on the Psalms : Theodoret’s biblical commentary interpreting the Psalms through historical, grammatical, and theological readings. It exemplifies his characteristic method of explaining scripture in its textual and historical setting.
Oriental Orthodox Churches : A family of ancient Christian churches that reject the Council of Chalcedon’s definition of Christ’s two natures. Their continuing disagreement with Chalcedonian theology reflects disputes in which Theodoret played a part.
John of Antioch : The patriarch of Antioch from 429 to 441, who negotiated reconciliation between Cyril of Alexandria and Antiochene bishops. John’s negotiations produced a settlement Theodoret initially resisted.
Formula of Reunion : A 433 agreement between Cyril of Alexandria and John of Antioch that reconciled their churches after Ephesus. Theodoret’s eventual acceptance of this agreement marked a turning point in his relations with Cyril’s party.
Alexandrian School : A tradition of Christian theology and biblical interpretation associated with Alexandria, often emphasizing allegorical readings and Christ’s unity. Its theological emphases differed from the Antiochene tradition Theodoret represented.
Commentary on the Pauline Epistles : Theodoret’s exposition of Paul’s letters, drawing on earlier interpreters and Antiochene methods. It shows how his exegetical practice extended beyond the controversies that made him famous.
Eastern Orthodox Church : The communion of churches that accepts the first seven ecumenical councils, including Chalcedon. Theodoret’s restoration at Chalcedon made him an accepted, though contested, figure in this tradition.
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