What the study found
The article argues that theosis, or deification, in the Orthodox tradition has a cosmic dimension that extends beyond humanity to non-human beings and the cosmos as a whole.
Why the authors say this matters
The authors say this matters because a more inclusive and holistic understanding of theosis may be relevant in light of the current climate crisis and issues of animal welfare.
What the researchers tested
The article draws on the Orthodox tradition, including St. Maximus the Confessor’s Logos–logoi theory and St. Gregory Palamas’s Essence–Energies distinction. It also engages with insights from contemporary Orthodox thinkers to outline theological foundations for this broader view.
What worked and what didn't
The article presents these Orthodox concepts as supporting a more inclusive account of theosis. The abstract does not describe empirical testing, comparison, or any unsuccessful approach.
What to keep in mind
The abstract does not provide detailed limitations, and it does not report empirical results. The discussion is theological in scope and is based on selected elements of the Orthodox tradition.
Key points
- The article says theosis has a cosmic dimension, not only a human one.
- It includes non-human beings and the cosmos as part of this theological view.
- The discussion draws on Maximus the Confessor and Gregory Palamas.
- The authors link the topic to climate crisis concerns and animal welfare.
- No empirical testing or detailed limitations are described in the abstract.
Disclosure
- Research title:
- Orthodox theology frames theosis as cosmic, not only human
- Publication date:
- 2026-04-03
- OpenAlex record:
- View
- Image credit:
- Photo by Lumi Kangas on Unsplash · Unsplash License
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