Council of Ephesus

Concile-Ephese-Fourviere-detail

Christian council of Ephèsus in 431

Saint Cyril of Alexandria at Chora

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Council of Ephesus was the third Ecumenical Council of the Christian Church, held in 431 AD. It convened to address the Nestorian controversy, which concerned the nature of Christ and the Virgin Mary. The council is particularly noted for affirming the title of Mary as Theotokos (Bearer of God), thereby rejecting Nestorianism, which proposed a division between the human and divine natures of Christ.

Background

The Council of Ephesus was convened by Emperor Theodosius II after the spread of Nestorianism, a doctrine taught by Nestorius, the Patriarch of Constantinople. Nestorius argued against the use of the term Theotokos for Mary, suggesting instead the term Christotokos (Bearer of Christ), to emphasize the distinction between Christ's human and divine natures. This teaching sparked controversy, leading to the calling of the council.

Proceedings

The council was presided over by Cyril of Alexandria, a staunch opponent of Nestorianism. The council's proceedings were marked by significant conflict, including the initial absence of the Nestorian bishops, who held their own council and issued a counter-declaration. Eventually, the Council of Ephesus declared Nestorius a heretic and affirmed the Virgin Mary's title as Theotokos. This decision was based on the unity of Christ's two natures, divine and human, in one person.

Outcomes

The Council of Ephesus had a profound impact on Christian theology and Christology. By affirming Mary as Theotokos, it underscored the belief in the hypostatic union—the inseparable, distinct natures of Christ. This decision also led to the further alienation of the Nestorian branches of Christianity, which eventually found refuge in the Persian Empire and further afield.

The council also issued several canons that addressed various ecclesiastical issues, including the jurisdiction of Jerusalem and Antioch, and the disciplinary measures against clergy involved in simony.

Legacy

The Council of Ephesus is commemorated in the Christian liturgical calendar on June 22. It is considered a pivotal moment in the development of early Christian doctrine and has been celebrated in the history of Orthodox, Roman Catholic, and some Protestant churches. The affirmation of Mary as Theotokos has remained a central tenet of Christian theological understanding.