The Theotokos is a term used to describe the Virgin Mary in the Eastern Orthodox and Catholic Churches. The word “Theotokos” (Θεοτόκος) is derived from the ancient Greek language and means “God-bearer.” The term emphasizes the divine nature of Jesus and Mary’s role as the mother of God.
The Origins of “Theotokos”
The concept of Theotokos arose from confusion in the early Christian Church regarding the nature of Jesus Christ. In Christianity, Jesus is understood to be both fully God and fully human. In other words, He is one person with two natures – Human and Divine. In theological terms, this doctrine is known as the hypostatic union.
According to Britannica:
“Christ was truly God and truly man. The doctrine maintains that the divine and human natures of Jesus do not exist beside one another in an unconnected way but rather are joined in him in a personal unity that has traditionally been referred to as the hypostatic union.”
Although the idea is easily stated, it can be tough to wrap your mind around. Likewise, Mary’s role as the mother of this paradox also becomes a bit of a confusing topic. Consequently, when the third ecumenical council was called, this was one of the points that appeared on the agenda.
The Council of Ephesus
Mary was given the title “Theotokos” at the Council of Ephesus in 431 AD. The council thought the term accurately described or defined Mary’s role and Jesus’ nature.
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is called “Emmanuel,” meaning “God with us.” In the context of the Gospel, this is a declaration that Jesus, a human, is also God. Similarly, the term “Theotokos” declares Mary to be the physical mother of God. This declaration indirectly affirms and supports the Jesus title “Emmanuel” and the Gospel narrative in general.
“If anyone does not confess that God is truly Emmanuel, and that on this account the holy virgin is the “Theotokos” (for according to the flesh she gave birth to the word of God become flesh by birth) let him be anathema.”
The Council of Ephesus, 431 AD
Although the council ratified the term Theotokos, not everyone was happy with the decision.
Nestorius’ Opposition
Nestorius, The Archbishop of Constantinople, for example, opposed the term, preferring to call Mary the Christotokos (“Christ-bearer” or “savory-bearer”) instead. Nestorius held a more “prosopic union” view of the incarnation. In other words, he believed the physical and spiritual natures of Jesus were separate, to the point of almost being different beings.
Though he tried to defend this view at the council, the other members ultimately denounced his ideas as heretical.
Theotokos After The Council
Despite this disagreement, the title “Theotokos” became a very popular way to talk about Mary, which is still used today. An excellent example of this can be seen in how Mary is typically referred to as “Mary the mother of God” in liturgical settings.
The council’s decision also played a role in later theological developments. For example, in 451 AD, the Council of Chalcedon used the ideas proposed by the term to construct the doctrine of the hypostatic union.
Theotokos and Mary
Before moving on, it should be noted that the title “Theotokos” was not intended to elevate Mary to a deistic or equal position with God. On the contrary, it’s a title that emphasizes the mystery of the immaculate conception and the paradoxical nature of Jesus. As the ancient hymn goes.
“He whom the entire universe could not contain was contained within your womb, O Theotokos.”
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, the Theotokos is a critical concept in Christian theology, which emphasizes the divine nature of Jesus and the significance of Mary’s role as his mother. Mary’s story is an important part of Christian history. Her faithfulness and devotion have inspired countless believers throughout the ages.
