Definition

1. Noun:

   • An adherent of Monophysitism: A person who holds the theological doctrine that in the person of Jesus Christ there is only one, divine nature, as opposed to two distinct natures (divine and human).

2. Adjective:

   • Of or relating to Monophysitism: Describing anything pertaining to the Monophysite doctrine or its followers.

Usage Examples

• Noun:

  • The council condemned the teachings of the monophysite. (The council condemned the teachings of the person adhering to the single-nature doctrine.)
  • Historically, some Eastern churches were labeled as monophysites. (Historically, some Eastern churches were identified as adherents of this Christological position.)

• Adjective:

  • The monophysite controversy was a major conflict in early Christianity. (The controversy related to the single-nature doctrine was a major conflict.)
  • He studied monophysite theology. (He studied the theology associated with the doctrine of one nature.)

Advanced Usage

• Historical and Theological Context: The term is primarily used in historical and theological discussions about early Christian debates, specifically following the Council of Chalcedon (451 AD). Some churches, such as the Coptic Orthodox Church, reject the label "Monophysite," preferring "Miaphysite" to describe their Christology, which emphasizes the unity of Christ's nature.

Variants and Related Words

• Monophysitism (n): The doctrine itself, asserting the single, divine nature of Christ.

  • Monophysitism was declared a heresy by the Council of Chalcedon.

• Miaphysite (n/adj): A term used by some ancient Oriental Orthodox Churches to describe their Christology, which speaks of one united nature (physis) of Christ from two natures, distinguishing it from the Eutychian interpretation of Monophysitism.

  • The Coptic Church is a Miaphysite church.

Synonyms

• (For the noun, in a historical/doctrinal context): Miaphysite (though this is a nuanced alternative, not a perfect synonym).
• (For the adjective): Miaphysite (as a related descriptive term).

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Monophysite heresy: A historical phrase used by Chalcedonian Christians to label the doctrine.

  • The emperor sought to reconcile those accused of the Monophysite heresy.

• Monophysite churches: A collective term historically applied to the Oriental Orthodox churches (e.g., Coptic, Armenian, Syriac).

  • The Monophysite churches maintained their distinct Christological formula.

Adjective

1. of or relating to Monophysitism

Noun

1. an adherent of Monophysitism