Antiochene Theoria in the Writings of Theodore of Mopsuestia and Theodoret of Cyrus

Biblical scholars have often contrasted the exegesis of the early church fathers from the eastern region and “school” of Syrian Antioch against that of the school of Alexandria. The Antiochenes have often been described as strictly historical-literal exegetes in contrast to the allegorical exegesis of the Alexandrians. Patristic scholars now challenge those stereotypes, some even arguing that few differences existed between the two groups. This work agrees that both schools were concerned with a literal and spiritual reading. But, it also tries to show, through analysis of Theodore and Theodoret’s exegesis and use of the term theoria, that how they integrated the literal-theological readings often remained quite distinct from the Alexandrians. For the Antiochenes, the term theoria did not mean allegory, but instead stood for a range of perceptions—prophetic, christological, and contemporary. It is in these insights that we find the deep wisdom to help modern readers interpret Scripture theologically. Acknowledgements ix Abbreviations xiii 1. Introduction: Why Study Antiochene Theōria? 1 2. Theōria in Theodore’s and Theodoret’s Commentaries 33 3. Research on Antiochene Theōria since 1991 113 4. Issues and Insights Surrounding Antiochene Theōria 205 5. Theōria and Theological Interpretation of Scripture 331 6. Conclusion: Relevance for Modern Theological Exegesis 409 Bibliography 459 Index of Names and Subjects 513 Index of Scripture References 541