ΘΕΩΡΊΑ: VEDEREA LUI DUMNEZEU, DUPĂ DE BEATITUDINIBUS, DE VITA MOYSIS ȘI IN CANTICUM CANTICORUM ALE SFÂNTULUI GRIGORIE DE NYSSA
ΘΕΩΡΊΑ: THE VISION OF GOD, IN GREGORY OF NYSSA'S WORKS: DE BEATITUDINIBUS, DE VITA MOYSIS AND IN CANTICUM CANTICORUM

Summary/Abstract: This term − θεωρία – was of great importance for the thinking of Saint Gregory of Nyssa. In Gregory, θεωρία can refer to the consideration of something, the things meditated upon, or actual contemplation. In the teachings of Saint Gregory, we can distinguish, according to Jean Daniélou and Giulio Maspero, three fundamental places where this notion is used, which are linked to each other: (a) scientific knowledge, (b) exegetical method, and (c) mystical contemplation. In its most properly scientific use, θεωρία assumes a signification similar to that of examination, research, study, philosophy. In certain passages it can be opposed to the material sense, while in others it refers to the comprehension of the literal sense in itself, that is to the concatenation of events (ἱστoρικὴ θεωρία). Gregory differs from the exegetes who preceded him, since he treats the scientific knowledge of the Word of God, and not only mystical knowledge of it. In its religious sense, as contemplation, is the way of looking at human realities from the perspective of celestial ones. Having been purified and having achieved purity in the moral virtues, the human being is led to the vision of God.

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