Since the beginning of time
mankind has tried to evaluate its position in the world, within creation. Who
are we? What are we? What is our role and place in this world? What is the
purpose of our life? According to the philosophical or religious beliefs of
someone, these questions receive very distinct and unique answers. How does
Christianity understand these questions? What is an Anthropos? This is a large
topic; nevertheless, below is an interesting answer to this questions:
‘Anthropos is radically different
from all other created beings by his ability to transcend himself. Gregory of
Nyssa thus ridicules the philosophers who thought they were glorifying man by
saying that he was a microcosm. From the biblical perspective, man infinitely
surpasses the world by the spirit of life, that divine spark, that God breathed
into him. Man (Anthropos) was created after all the other creatures but in line
with God’s eternal project, a project which sin can disturb but not totally
destroy. In this divine plan, man is destined to reign over the world, explore
it, and delight in the beauty of the cosmos. Such a royal dignity implies a
profound solidarity. In the words of Gregory Nyssa, humanity is a “free mirror”
which by turning toward God the Sun receives and communicates light. If
humanity separates itself from God and wanders away from him, man and the world
are plunged into darkness.’[1]
[1]
Behr-Sigel, Elisabeth, The Ministry of
Women in the Church, (California, Oakwood Publications, 1991), p. 84.
No comments:
Post a Comment