The Kephalaia gnostica of Evagrius Ponticus and Origenism

This workshop will focus on the Kephalaia gnostica of Evagrius Ponticus (345–399), a text widely regarded as one of the most challenging and influential of early Christian spiritual literature. In this work, Evagrius presents his theological and cosmological reflections in the form of concise, aphoristic statements (kephalaia), inviting careful interpretation and contemplative reading. The text will be analysed with particular reference to its intellectual background, with a focus on its relationship to Origenist thought. The workshop will explore a number of key themes, including but not limited to: knowledge (gnosis); the intellect (nous); creation and fall; spiritual ascent; and the ultimate restoration of all things. Participants will gain insight into how Evagrius combines ascetic practice with speculative theology and why the Kephalaia gnostica played a central role in later Origenist controversies.

Weitere Infos zur Veranstaltung