Are The Assyrian Church Monophysites Or Miaphysites

Caroline Mae

2 min read

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26-12-2024

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The question of whether the Assyrian Church of the East is Monophysite or Miaphysite is a complex one, steeped in centuries of theological debate and nuanced interpretations of Christology. The simple answer is neither, but the explanation requires a deeper understanding of these theological terms and the Assyrian Church's unique position.

Understanding the Key Terms

To understand the Assyrian Church's stance, we first need to define the terms:

• Monophysitism: This Christological doctrine asserts that Jesus Christ possessed only one nature – the divine nature. The human nature was completely absorbed or subsumed by the divine.

• Miaphysitism: This doctrine, often considered a compromise, argues that Jesus Christ possessed two natures (divine and human) united in one single physis (nature). This is a subtle but crucial difference from the Chalcedonian definition.

• Chalcedonian Definition: The Council of Chalcedon (451 AD) defined Christ as having two distinct natures, divine and human, perfectly and inseparably united in one person. This is the dominant Christological position within most mainstream Christian denominations.

The Assyrian Church's Position: A Unique Perspective

The Assyrian Church of the East rejects both Monophysitism and the Chalcedonian definition. They do not believe that Christ's human nature was absorbed by the divine (Monophysitism), nor do they fully embrace the Chalcedonian concept of two distinct, yet united natures.

Instead, the Assyrian Church holds a distinct christological position often described as "non-Chalcedonian" or having "a non-Chalcedonian understanding of Christology." Their understanding emphasizes the unity of Christ's person while maintaining a distinction between his divine and human ousia (substance/essence). They articulate this through terminology and concepts distinct from both Miaphysite and Monophysite formulations. Their theological emphasis lies on the union of the two natures in the one person of Christ, expressing a certain unity that transcends simple dualism without collapsing the distinctness of each nature.

Avoiding Labeling: The Importance of Nuance

While attempts are sometimes made to label the Assyrian Church's Christology as a form of Miaphysitism, this can be misleading and inaccurate. The subtle nuances in their theological expressions differ significantly from Miaphysite formulations, making a simple label inadequate. It's crucial to approach the Assyrian Church's Christology with sensitivity and a recognition of its unique historical development and theological vocabulary.

In Conclusion: Classifying the Assyrian Church solely as Monophysite or Miaphysite is an oversimplification and risks misrepresenting their complex and nuanced theological understanding of the person of Christ. Their position is best understood as distinct and separate from both, representing a rich and ancient tradition within Christianity.