The Position of Bishop at the Turn of Antiquity and the Middle Ages Cover Image

Postavenie biskupa na prelome antiky a stredoveku
The Position of Bishop at the Turn of Antiquity and the Middle Ages

Author(s): Emanuel Jirkal
Subject(s): Christian Theology and Religion, Ancient World, 6th to 12th Centuries, History of Religion
Published by: Univerzita Konštantína Filozofa v Nitre, Filozofická fakulta
Keywords: Antiquity; Roman Empire; Christianity; Bishop;

Summary/Abstract: The paper focuses on the bishop´s position in his Christian community and his position within the Roman Empire, especially after Constantine‘s turn. The function of the bishop, his position and his powers gradually changed in the Late Antiquity, which was also reflected in the imperial legislation. To some extent, the bishops represented state authorities, especially the judicial ones, and took care of the poor and the needy. As the economic power of the Christian communities increased, the bishops became important members of the local honorability. Nevertheless, their main role remained the pastoral care and administration of the Christian community.

  • Issue Year: 24/2020
  • Issue No: 1
  • Page Range: 3-17
  • Page Count: 15
  • Language: Slovak