Basil of Caesarea and Gregory of Nazianzus on the Problem with the Devil
The aim of this paper is to consider the role of the devil in early Christian approaches to evil and suffering, using as a case study theological reflection on this theme by Basil of Caesarea and Gregory of Nazianzus. Through a close reading of three texts concerned with the origins of evil, suffering, and the continued presence of the devil on earth after Christ’s victory, I propose the devil’s existence contributes to the mystery of evil for Basil and Gregory. Put simply, the devil does not serve as a strategy to solve problems of evil and suffering. The devil himself is a problem.
Date: 3 March 2025, 17:00
Venue: Online
Speakers: Revd Prof Gabrielle Thomas (Candler School of Theology, Emory University, USA), Dr Sebastian Brock (University of Oxford)
Organisers: Dr Thea Gomelauri (Oxford Interfaith Forum), Oxford Interfaith Forum (Oxford), Dr Sebastian Brock (University of Oxford)
Organiser contact email address: oxfordfaiths@gmail.com
Host: Oxford Interfaith Forum (Oxford)
Part of: Eastern Christianity in Interfaith Contexts
Booking required?: Required
Booking url: https://oxfordinterfaithforum.org/thematic-international-interfaith-reading-groups/eastern-christianity-in-interfaith-contexts/basil-of-caesarea-and-gregory-of-nazianzus-on-the-problem-with-the-devil/
Booking email: oxfordfaiths@gmail.com
Cost: n/a
Audience: Public
Editor: Thea Gomelauri