The Concept of Apokatastasis as a Symbol of Human Equality and Religious Inclusion

Forum Philosophicum: International Journal for Philosophy 27 (2):237-260 (2022)
  Copy   BIBTEX

Abstract

This article analyzes the notion of apokatastasis, first as it appears in the Greek philosophical tradition and then in the context of Christian thought. It shows how the cosmic theory of eternal return unfolded within early currents of Hellenic philosophy, and subsequently how the personal dimension of apokatastasis grew out of those traditions, where questions about the fate of humanity became primary. The article then points to the fundamental philosophical assumptions of apokatastasis in its cosmic and personal forms. Christian thought, in the process of its evolution, made significant use of Greek methodology and concepts. One of the theories transferred to the Christian context concerned the notion of universal salvation (apokatastasis). Such thinkers as Origen, Gregory of Nyssa and John Scotus Eriugena developed the concept into its mature form. Although apokatastasis has been condemned on numerous occasions, it has survived in Christian teaching. From a secular perspective, it can be regarded as a symbol of the equity of all people, beckoning us in the direction of the notion of religious inclusion. As such, it ought to be construed as translating into respect and care for the other person sic et nunc.

Other Versions

No versions found

Links

PhilArchive



    Upload a copy of this work     Papers currently archived: 97,060

External links

Setup an account with your affiliations in order to access resources via your University's proxy server

Through your library

Similar books and articles

A Historical Study of the Doctrine of 'Apokatastasis'.S. Edward Baxter - 1988 - Dissertation, Mid-America Baptist Theological Seminary
Gregorio di Nissa Sull'anima e la resurrezione.Ilaria L. E. Ramelli - 2007 - Milan: Bompiani, in collaboration with the Catholic University of the Sacred Heart in Milan. Series: Il Pensiero Occidentale. Pp. 1352..

Analytics

Added to PP
2023-01-05

Downloads
17 (#1,007,475)

6 months
10 (#617,210)

Historical graph of downloads
How can I increase my downloads?

Author's Profile

Citations of this work

No citations found.

Add more citations

References found in this work

No references found.

Add more references