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Document Details :

Title: Nationalisme in de oosterse orthodoxie
Author(s): GROEN, B.
Journal: Journal of Eastern Christian Studies
Volume: 50    Issue: 1-2   Date: 1998   
Pages: 35-60
DOI: 10.2143/JECS.50.1.2003063

Abstract :
Nationalism in Eastern Orthodoxy
Firstly, the close bonds are examined, which developed in the Byzantine Empire, in the post-Byzantine period, in Russia and Ukraine between Orthodoxy and ethnicity. Secondly several notions on modern nationalism and negative reactions from prominent Orthodox theologians to ecclesiastical nationalism are described. Thirdly, Serbian Orthodox views on the relation between religion and the Serbian people are dealt with. Fourthly, Greek opinions on the relation between Orthodoxy and ethnicity in Greece and Greek reactions to the armed conflicts in former Yugoslavia are examined. Fifthly, the Constantinople Patriarchate’s general position, its self-consciousness and its reactions to the war in former Yugoslavia are dealt with.
Many Orthodox stress the close link between Church, homeland and people and the need for interorthodox solidarity against the enemy. Other Orthodox emphasize the inner way of the heart and reject nationalism because of its exclusiveness. However, it is a difficult task to loosen the age-old bonds between religion and nationalism because of collective images and identity issues.