Syriac Orthodox Patriarchal Journal 61 (2023)
Table of Contents
Brock, Sebastian P., “The short Life of Philoxenos”, SOPJ 61 (2023), 1-17
Abstract: This study examines the Short Life of Philoxenos by comparing a late prose biography with the longer verse Life traditionally associated with Eli of Qartmin. Through textual and historical analysis, it traces the transmission of the work across Syriac manuscripts and modern editions, demonstrating that the prose narrative is essentially an abridged version of the verse account. The article reconstructs the principal stages of Philoxenos’ life, including his education, monastic formation, episcopal ministry, and literary activity, while identifying later additions and anachronistic elements within the tradition. It highlights the value of the Short Life as a witness to the reception of Philoxenos’ legacy and to the development of Syriac hagiographical writing over the centuries.
McConaughy, Daniel L., “Philoxenus’ ‘Pre-Philoxenian’ Text of Acts”, SOPJ 61 (2023), 19-41
Abstract: This article shows that Philoxenus’ ‘pre-Philoxenian’ citations of Acts reflect modifications of the Peshitta to conform more closely to the Greek. The focus of this study is on his writings written before the creation of the Philoxenian Version in 507/508. It compares his citations to the Peshitta and the Harklean versions, the Greek text, collations of dozens of Peshitta and Lectionary MSS of Acts and numerous contemporaneous Syriac and Graeco-Syriac translation works. It extends the earlier works of Vööbus, Brock and Walters regarding the New Testament text used by Philoxenus by examining Philoxenus’ writings that predate the Philoxenian version. This paper demonstrates that Philoxenus was modifying his citations of the Peshitta text of Acts to conform to the Greek well before the production of his eponymous version. These data call into question the opinion that Philoxenus was not skilled in Greek. The results show that the Philoxenian revision executed by Polycarp for Philoxenus was not cut from new cloth but was a culmination of Philoxenus’ and the Syriac church’s awareness of the Greek text and need to revise the Peshitta at the end of the fifth century and opening of the sixth century.
Possekel, Ute, “Philoxenus of Mabbug on ‘incorruptibility’: a contested legacy”, SOPJ 61 (2023), 43-58
Abstract: This study investigates the concept of Christ’s incorruptibility in the writings of Philoxenus of Mabbug and its role in the theological debates that followed his death, particularly the controversy between Severus of Antioch and Julian of Halicarnassus. Through a close reading of Philoxenus’ dogmatic letters, biblical commentaries, and Memre against Habbib, the article examines his interpretation of the incarnation, the virgin birth, the resurrection, and Acts 2:31. It argues that Philoxenus presents a nuanced Christology that affirms the unique holiness and supernatural character of Christ’s body without explicitly identifying it as inherently incorruptible before the resurrection. The study concludes that later opposing traditions selectively appropriated his legacy, transforming his theology into a contested source of doctrinal authority.
Akhrass, Severus Roger, “Mary’s pains during childbirth according to the Syriac Fathers (4th-6th century)”, SOPJ 61 (2023), 59-71
Abstract: This article examines whether Mary gave birth to Jesus with or without pain, and the consequences of each of these two postulates. Although the question arose very early in different cultural spheres of Christianity, the present study will mainly focus on four authors from the first golden age of Syriac literature: Ephrem of Nisibis (†373), Jacob of Serugh (†521), Philoxenos of Mabbug (†523) and Severus of Antioch (512-†538). Knowing that some Mariological studies have already touched on the thought of Ephrem and Jacob in this regard, we believe that not all has been said yet. In fact, we would like to highlight the Fathers’ hesitation, and even their opposite views on this topic. Our aim is to show how the same author can sometimes support the existence of birth pangs and sometimes deny it, depending on the underlying idea he intends to expose. This idea is generally Christological. We will show that the pains of childbirth, like other Marian themes, concern less Mary than her son, Jesus. On the one hand, they reflect fundamental principles of Christology (the reality of Christ’s body and the two births of the Word of God), and on the other, a symbolic reading of the Old Testament (the fulfilment of Isaiah’s prophecies and the Eve-Mary typology).
Mellon Saint-Laurent, Jeanne-Nicole, “Training the Spiritual Palate: Taste Imagery and Divine Knowledge in Philoxenos of Mabbug”, SOPJ 61 (2023), 73-87
Abstract: This study explores the theology of taste in the writings of Philoxenos of Mabbug, demonstrating how sensory imagery functions as a framework for understanding divine knowledge, ascetic discipline, the Incarnation, and mystical union with God. Drawing on Philoxenos’ ascetical discourses and theological treatises, the article examines the relationship between bodily and spiritual taste, arguing that detachment from earthly pleasures enables the cultivation of a spiritual palate capable of perceiving divine sweetness. Particular attention is given to fasting, the Eucharist, Christ’s tasting of death, and the restoration of the senses through the Incarnation. The study concludes that taste serves as a transformative metaphor through which Philoxenos unites knowledge, pleasure, and participation in divine life, presenting spiritual desire as the fulfillment of human nature.
McCarty, VK, “Enkindling Faith Renewal: Mar Philoxenos as Spiritual Guide for Today”, SOPJ 61 (2023), 89-98
Abstract: This article reintroduces Mar Philoxenos of Mabbug as a compelling spiritual guide whose ascetical theology remains relevant for contemporary Orthodox faith renewal. Moving beyond his reputation as a controversial theologian, it presents him as a pastoral teacher whose writings nurture discipleship, prayer, and spiritual transformation. Drawing primarily on the first three Memre, the study adapts Philoxenos’ teachings into concise spiritual sayings suitable for modern spiritual direction, emphasizing faith as the foundation of Christian life, the cultivation of inner perception, and the pursuit of union with Christ. By highlighting themes of simplicity, trust, and disciplined practice, the article demonstrates how Philoxenos’ Syriac wisdom continues to inspire believers seeking deeper commitment and renewed participation in the life of the Spirit.
Kawak, Dionysios John, “The baptismal rite in the writings of Philoxenus of Mabbug”, SOPJ 61 (2023), 99-105
Abstract: This article examines the theology and liturgical structure of baptism in the writings of Philoxenus of Mabbug, highlighting his understanding of the sacrament as a transformative new birth through water and the Holy Spirit. Drawing on the Commentary on John’s Prologue and the Book of Sentences, it reconstructs the sequence of the baptismal rite, including catechesis, exorcism, anointings, immersion, and vesting. Philoxenus presents Christ’s baptism as the model and foundation of Christian baptism, emphasizing participation in Christ’s death and resurrection. He interprets water and oil as sacramental elements empowered by the Holy Spirit, conveying sanctification and spiritual rebirth. The study also explores his theology of pre- and post-baptismal anointings, demonstrating their unified role in initiating believers into renewed life in Christ.
المجلة البطريركية (الإصدار الجديد) 61، 2023
المحتويات
أخرس، سويريوس روجيه، “سيرة مار فيلكسينوس المنبجيّ”، المجلة البطريركية 61 (2023)، 1-54.
Abstract: This critical study evaluates the fifth-century ecclesiastical career, anti-Chalcedonian theological campaigns, and ultimate exile of Mar Philoxenus of Mabbug (Aksenoyo, d. 523). Grounded in historical-critical analysis of early Syriac hagiographies and late antique episcopal correspondences, the author examines Philoxenus’s strategic deployment of the Trisagion formula to institutionalize West Syrian miaphysite Christology across the Sassanid-Byzantine borders. The research highlights his systematic purge of Nestorian configurations within the school of Edessa and his structural reformation of the metropolitan diocese of Mabbug. Ultimately, the paper underscores how his uncompromising literary defenses against the neo-Chalcedonian maneuvers of Patriarch Flavian II culminated in his forced displacement by Emperor Justin I, cementing his legacy as a central architect of authentic Syriac monastic identity.
كورية، جرجس، “مار فيلوكسينوس مطران منبج أبرز محطّات حياته وأثره في الفكر السريانيّ والمسيحيّ”، المجلة البطريركية 61 (2023)، 55-75.
Abstract: This study examines the life and theological influence of Mar Philoxenus of Mabbug, highlighting his decisive role in shaping Syriac and broader Christian thought during the Byzantine period. It outlines his formation in Edessa, his pastoral and doctrinal leadership as Metropolitan of Mabbug, and his vigorous defense of Cyrillian Miaphysite Christology against both Nestorian and Chalcedonian positions. The article emphasizes Philoxenus’ impact on ecclesiastical politics, his missionary outreach beyond his diocese, and his enduring authority among Syriac Orthodox communities. It also reviews the controversies, persecutions, and eventual martyr‑like death that marked his career, arguing that his legacy remains foundational for understanding the development of Syriac theological identity.
تسيربانليس، قسطنطين ن.، “بعض الخواطر في خريستولوجية مار فيلوكسينوس”، ترجمة آداي ماهر، المجلة البطريركية 61 (2023)، 77-90.
Abstract: This study examines the Christological thought of Philoxenus of Mabbug, highlighting his decisive role in shaping the miaphysite theological tradition. Drawing on biblical exegesis, anti‑Nestorian polemics, and a rigorous commitment to the Nicene–Constantinopolitan Creed, Philoxenus articulates a doctrine of the one incarnate nature of the Word, rejecting both dyophysite duality and any notion of change in the divine essence. The article surveys his historical context, major writings, and engagement with imperial religious policy, while emphasizing his core principles: the simultaneity of incarnation and conception, the non‑changeability of the divine nature, and the salvific necessity of Christ’s real humanity. Ultimately, Philoxenus presents a coherent theological vision in which the unity of Christ safeguards the universality of salvation.
غريب، أنطونيوس، “ميمر للقدّيس فيلوكسينوس المنبجيّ عن الثالوث الأقدس”، المجلة البطريركية 61 (2023)، 91-138.
Abstract: This study examines Philoxenus of Mabbug’s Memra on the Holy Trinity, a unique theological work embedded in his Book of Doctrines (485–498). The memra seeks to safeguard Trinitarian orthodoxy by rejecting any notion of tri-theism and by grounding Christological teaching in the unity and simplicity of the divine nature. Philoxenus develops an apophatic framework that denies the possibility of comprehending God’s essence, emphasizing instead divine self‑revelation, the limits of human reason, and the necessity of worship over speculation. Drawing on Evagrian spirituality, he links Trinitarian knowledge to ascetic purification, simplicity of heart, and divine grace. The memra thus integrates ontology, epistemology, and doxology into a coherent Syriac theological vision.
مايكلسون، دافيد، “”نأكل غير المأكول”: المخاطر الخريستولوجيّة للممارسة الليتورجيّة”، ترجمة رامي ملعب، المجلة البطريركية 61 (2023)، 139-156.
[Michelson, David. “ ‘Though He cannot be eaten, we consume Him’ Christological Threats to Liturgical Practice.” Arabic trans. Rami Malaab, SOPJ 61 (2023), 139-156 [Arabic].
Abstract: This study examines Philoxenos of Mabbug’s liturgical argumentation against dyophysite Christology, highlighting how he grounds theological knowledge in worship rather than speculative inquiry. By analyzing baptism, the Eucharist, and the Trisagion, Philoxenos contends that liturgical experience provides sufficient understanding of the incarnation and exposes the inconsistencies of a two‑nature framework. He argues that dyophysite theology disrupts the believer’s sacramental union with God and undermines the transformative role of the Holy Spirit in the Church’s rites. The article shows how Philoxenos integrates Ephrem’s theology of wonder, Evagrian epistemology, and anti‑theoretical patristic traditions to construct a miaphysite vision in which right worship safeguards right belief and preserves access to divine life.
سرياني، عماد، “البساطة في فكر مار فيلكسينوس المنبجيّ: قراءة روحيّة ولاهوتيّة”، المجلة البطريركية 61 (2023)، 157-193.
Abstract: This study examines the concept of simplicity (ܦܫܝܛܘܬܐ) in the spiritual and theological thought of Philoxenos of Mabbug (†523), highlighting its foundational role in Christian discipleship and doctrinal understanding. Philoxenos presents simplicity not as naivety but as the unified, undivided disposition enabling the believer to receive divine mysteries without rationalistic scrutiny. Drawing on biblical exemplars—Adam, Abel, Abraham, Jacob, Joseph, Samuel, and David—he contrasts simplicity with cunning, identifying the latter as the root of heresy and spiritual deviation. The analysis shows how simplicity shapes scriptural interpretation, nurtures purity of heart, and prepares the mind for Christological truths. Ultimately, simplicity emerges as an essential virtue for spiritual growth, monastic formation, and authentic engagement with divine revelation.