Do the Orthodox Believe in the Assumption of Mary?
The Assumption of Mary, also known as the Dormition of the Theotokos, is a significant doctrine in the Eastern Orthodox Church. It is the belief that the Virgin Mary, the mother of Jesus Christ, was assumed into heaven both soul and body at the end of her life. This belief is deeply rooted in Orthodox theology and is celebrated as a major feast day in the Orthodox liturgical calendar. However, it is important to explore whether this belief is universally accepted among all Orthodox Christians.
The Orthodox Church holds the Assumption of Mary as a dogmatic truth, meaning it is a fundamental doctrine that is believed to be revealed by God. The belief is based on scriptural references, such as the description of Mary as “full of grace” (Luke 1:28) and the assumption of Enoch and Elijah into heaven (Genesis 5:24; 2 Kings 2:11). The feast of the Assumption is celebrated on August 15th and is considered a day of joy and reverence for the Virgin Mary.
Despite the dogmatic nature of the Assumption, there is a diversity of opinion within the Orthodox community regarding its acceptance. While many Orthodox Christians firmly believe in the Assumption, some argue that it is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible and therefore cannot be considered a dogmatic truth. This view is often associated with the Old Calendarists, who adhere to the traditional Julian calendar and reject certain modern theological developments.
Another point of contention is the historical evidence for the Assumption. Some Orthodox Christians argue that the lack of historical documentation makes it difficult to ascertain the truth of the event. However, others maintain that the Assumption is a mystery that transcends human understanding and is not subject to historical verification.
It is important to note that the Assumption of Mary is not universally accepted among all Orthodox Christians. While many believers hold it as a core doctrine, others may approach it with a more symbolic or spiritual interpretation. This diversity of belief reflects the rich theological tradition of the Orthodox Church, which values both scriptural interpretation and the witness of the saints.
In conclusion, the question of whether the Orthodox believe in the Assumption of Mary is a complex one. While the doctrine is widely accepted and celebrated, there is a diversity of opinion within the Orthodox community regarding its validity. The Assumption of Mary remains a significant and cherished belief for many Orthodox Christians, but it is also a topic of ongoing theological reflection and discussion.
