TRENDS IN EASTERN ORTHODOX THEOLOGICAL ANTHROPOLOGY: TOWARDS A THEOLOGY OF SEXUALITY

Abstract

Modern Eastern Orthodoxy has neglected to develop a clear and consistent theological anthropology to answer the many contemporary questions of gender and sexuality. Personhood remains remarkably undeveloped; a spirit lacking body. Three modern thinkers, Sergius Bulgakov, Vladimir Lossky, and John Zizioulas, have developed theologies that have many implications for the beginnings of an engagement with modern concerns around gender identity and human sexuality. For Bulgakov, personhood is in the image and likeness of a complex sophianic God, who is unity in diversity. For Lossky and Zizioulas the Christian life is envisioned as one which moves from individuality into personhood, from the limits of nature into loving freedom of persons in communion.

Theological anthropology should take seriously the challenge posed by modern theories and philosophies of sex and gender. It should use these thinkers to articulate more clearly a consistent and thoughtful theology which fully understands its implications. A truly Orthodox anthropology would be an integration of two ways: a Bulgakovian human nature, positive and full of mysterious diversity; and the personhood of Zizioulas and Lossky, transcendent and apophatic. This paper will make initial suggestions for developing their thought in directions that can address current questions of gender and sexuality.