previous article in this issue | next article in this issue |
Document Details : Title: A Practice of Love Subtitle: Myrrha Lot-Borodine (1882-1954) and the Modern Revival of the Doctrine of Deification Author(s): ZORGDRAGER, Heleen E. Journal: Journal of Eastern Christian Studies Volume: 64 Issue: 3-4 Date: 2012 Pages: 287-307 DOI: 10.2143/JECS.64.3.2961413 Abstract : The first scholar who introduced the Eastern doctrine of deification to a modern Western audience was Myrrha Lot-Borodine, in 1932/33. Born in Russia, she moved to France and became a specialist in medieval literature. The courteous poetry was a source of inspiration for her to discover the Christian mystical tradition and, subsequently, the treasures of patristic theology. This article presents the life and scholarly development of Lot-Borodine, reconstructs extensively her view of theosis, as becoming one with God in a contemplative movement of eros/agape, and discusses the deficient reception of her work. In the evaluation, Lot-Borodine’s theology is rehabilitated within the context of modern Orthodox theology and situated in relation to the different traditions of theosis. Finally, some insights into the gender-relevance of her work are formulated. |