The Westminster Handbook to Origen

by John Anthony McGuckin (editor)

This book provides ready access into and sure guidance through the marvelous, often convoluted, invariably rich world of the man, the ecclesiastical dynamics of his day, his extant works, the range of his theological explorations, his influence, and the controversies associated with him in life and in death. Included are recommendations for use and clear presentation of topics which enable the reader, whether novice or specialist, to engage Origen in ways that address the reader's interest.

The Westminster Handbook to Christian Theology series provides a set of resources for the study of historic and contemporary theological movements and Christian theologians. These books are intended to help students and scholars find concise and accurate treatments of important theological terms.

Genres: Theology

272 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 1, 2004

About the author

John Anthony McGuckin is the Nielsen Emeritus Professor of Byzantine Christian Studies at Union Theological Seminary and Columbia University, and currently professor of early Christianity in the Theological Faculty of Oxford University. An archpriest of the Romanian Orthodox Church and Fellow of the Royal Historical Society, he has written more than thirty scholarly books. He lives in the UK.

Reviews

[Christian Barrett · Rating 3 out of 5]

In many ways this handbook seems outdated. Much of the scholarship on Origen here has changed in the past 10 years. Topics on “pre-existence of souls”, “cosmology”, and “apokatastasis” all need updates. The lack of content on “protology” is alarming, but speaks to the brevity of the resource. Overall, not a horrible introduction if someone wanted to learn more about Origen, but the new Oxford guide will is necessary and will be of more value.

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

Get acquainted with the "first theologian" of Christianity. When we do not know the roots of theology, we often become unmoored from important insights.