Arianism is a term used to refer to a heretical Christian doctrine that denies the Trinity and asserts the sole deity of God the Father. In terms of spelling, "Arianism" is pronounced as "air-ee-uh-nih-zuhm" with IPA phonetic transcription /ˈɛː.ɹi.ə.nɪ.zəm/. The term is derived from the name of Arius, a theologian who propagated this belief in the fourth century AD. Despite the controversy surrounding Arianism, the word is spelled the way it sounds, making it easier for people to understand and use in daily conversations.
Arianism refers to a controversial theological doctrine that emerged during the early Christian period, particularly in the 4th century AD. The term derives from its founder, Arius, a Christian priest from Egypt. Arianism challenges the orthodox Christian belief in the Holy Trinity, arguing that Jesus Christ, the Son of God, was not co-eternal or of the same substance as God the Father.
According to Arianism, Jesus is a subordinate being created by God the Father, resulting in a fundamental difference in their essence. Arianists assert that there was a time when Jesus did not exist and that he possesses a divinity of a lower degree than the Father. This viewpoint rejects the concept of Jesus as God in human form and instead posits him as the highest and most perfect of creatures.
Arianism sparked significant controversy within the early Christian Church, leading to the convening of the First Council of Nicaea in 325 AD. At this council, Arianism was refuted, and the orthodox Christian doctrine was formulated, affirming that Jesus and the Father are of the same essence and co-eternal. This statement, known as the Nicene Creed, became a defining element of Christian orthodoxy.
Though Arianism was initially condemned by the Council of Nicaea, it continued to persist for some time, finding support among various Christian communities and even some influential individuals, including certain emperors. However, eventually, it was largely discredited and faded in significance, as the orthodox interpretation of the Trinity prevailed and became dominant within mainstream Christian theology.
The doctrines of the Arians.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "Arianism" originates from the theological teachings of the priest Arius, who lived in the 4th century AD. Arius was a presbyter in Alexandria, Egypt, and developed a belief system that became widely known as Arianism. The term itself is derived from Arius' name.
Arianism referred to a theological doctrine that denied the full divinity of Jesus Christ, asserting that he was a created being rather than being co-eternal and equal with God the Father. This belief system gained popularity and became a significant controversy within early Christianity.
It is important to note that Arianism was declared a heresy by the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, resulting in the establishment of the Nicene Creed, which affirmed Christ's divinity and denounced Arian teachings. Nevertheless, the ideas associated with Arianism continued to persist and influence various Christian denominations throughout history.