IOAN MATEIU: O VOCE A INTELECTUALITĂȚII ORTODOXE ÎN ROMÂNIA INTERBELICĂ
Ioan Mateiu: A Voice of Orthodox Intellectualism in Interwar Romania

Summary/Abstract: This article analyses the views of Ioan Mateiu, a prominent Transylvanian Orthodox intellectual and theologian, on the relationship between the Romanian Orthodox Church (BOR) and the Romanian state in the interwar period. Mateiu strongly advocated for the autonomy of the BOR considering it is a fundamental institution for the national identity and spirituality of Romanians. He criticised the Romanian state’s policy of excessive centralisation and saw this as a threat to the autonomy of the church and its specific traditions. Mateiu was also an ardent critic of the extended rights granted to minority cults, as he believed that they marginalised the BOR and weakened its influence in society. At the same time, he argued for a clearer definition of the BOR’s status as the dominant church and emphasised its fundamental role in preserving the national and spiritual identity of Romanians. The article is based on a detailed analysis of Mateiu’s articles in the interwar press. This analysis reveals a complex picture of his view of the relationship between church and state, emphasising both conservative and modern elements of his thought.

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