The Mariology of Alexander of Alexandria

Introdução

Alexandre of Alexandria (d. 328) was one of the first theologians to develop a mariology with dogmatic implications, defending the divinity of the Son against Arius and paving the way for the proclamation of Mary as Theotokos (Mother of God) at Ephesus.

Contexto Histórico

Alexander was bishop of Alexandria from 312 to 328, facing a Meletian schism that divided the local church. Canon 6 of the First Council of Nicaea (325) reaffirmed the authority of the See of Alexandria over Egypt.

A Crise Ariana

Around 318, Alexander confronted Arius, an influential priest who advocated a different view of the divinity of the Son. After a synod in 319, Alexander excommunicated Arius and his followers. In his letter Henos somatos, Alexander reacts to Eusebius of Nicomedia’s interference in the matter.

Arius disagreed with the eternity of the divine generation of the Son and substantial unity, as evidenced by his work Thalia. Alexander, in a letter to Alexander of Thessalonica (324), clearly affirmed these doctrines.

Contribuições para a Mariologia

Alexander and his future successor, Athanasius, played a crucial role in the formulation of Marian theology. Here are two important aspects:

1. Use of the Title Theotokos: Alexander, in a letter, attributes to Mary the title of Theotokos as something common, paving the way for the controversy of Ephesus with Nestorius and the Antiochene school.

2. Maria as Model of Consecrated Life: Alexander exhorted the virgins to follow Mary as the supreme model of life consecrated to Christ, emphasizing the importance of virginity and heavenly life.

Citações de Santo Atanásio

Atanásio, em suas obras Contra os Arianos, resume o ensino de Alexandre:

• “At the end of time… He, the Word, was born of the Virgin Mary… [she] is the type and image of heavenly life.” (From Epistula ad virgines)

• We confess the resurrection of the dead… of which Our Lord Jesus Christ has become the firstfruits, having received in truth and not in appearance a body from the Mother of God [Theotokos] Mary.

Aprofundando o Estudo

For a deeper understanding of Patristic Mariology, consult the Encyclical *Redemptoris Mater* by John Paul II. Also explore:

• Mariologia
• Teologia Mariana
• Aparições Marianas
• Pós-Graduação em Mariologia

Alexander of Alexandria remains a central figure in Marian theology, offering valuable insights into the Marian dogma.