HOMOOUSIAN Meaning and
Definition
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Homoousian is an adjective derived from Greek origins to describe the concept of being of the "same substance" or "of one essence." It is often associated with theological doctrines, specifically within Christian theology, particularly during the early centuries of the Church. The term gained prominence during the controversy regarding the nature of Jesus Christ and the Holy Trinity.
In the context of theological discussions, homoousian reflects the belief that Father, Son (Jesus Christ), and Holy Spirit share a single divine substance or essence. This concept was particularly emphasized during the time of the Nicene Creed, a Christian statement of faith formulated in the 4th century. The Nicene Creed affirmed the homoousian doctrine, declaring that Jesus was "of one substance with the Father," in opposition to those who believed otherwise.
Homoousian denotes a unity and equality between the divine persons within the Trinity, emphasizing their co-eternal and co-equal nature. The term attempts to articulate the understanding that God is indivisible and that all three persons are distinct yet inseparable aspects of the divine being.
While primarily used in the theological sphere, homoousian can also find application in other contexts. It can be employed to describe aspects of unity, sameness, or shared essence between different entities or individuals, extending beyond religious discourse. However, it predominantly remains a theological term associated with the understanding of the Trinity and the nature of God within Christianity.
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• One who maintained that the Son had the same essence with the Father.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for HOMOOUSIAN
- gomoousian
- bomoousian
- nomoousian
- jomoousian
- uomoousian
- yomoousian
- himoousian
- hkmoousian
- hlmoousian
- hpmoousian
- h0moousian
- h9moousian
- honoousian
- hokoousian
- hojoousian
- homkousian
- homlousian
- hompousian
- hom0ousian
Etymology of HOMOOUSIAN
The word "Homoousian" has its etymology in ancient Greek. It is derived from two Greek terms: "homoios" meaning "same" or "similar", and "ousia" meaning "essence" or "substance". Thus, "Homoousian" translates to "of the same essence" or "of the same substance". This term gained significance in early Christianity, specifically in relation to the theological debate concerning the nature of Christ.
