By Michael Ibrahim
St. Severus of Antioch: The Theologian Who Defended the Faith
Most people know St. Athanasius as the defender of Orthodoxy against Arianism. But when it comes to Christology, there’s another saint who played just as crucial a role: St. Severus of Antioch. Though often overlooked, he was one of the sharpest theological minds of his time, a fierce defender of the Orthodox faith, and a key figure in shaping the theology of the Coptic and Oriental Orthodox Churches.
A Lawyer Turned Theologian
Born into a wealthy family, St. Severus was expected to become a great legal scholar. He was educated in rhetoric and law in some of the finest institutions of the time. However, his love for words and debate eventually led him to theology. Through the influence of Christian friends, he started reading the Church Fathers, particularly St. Basil the Great and St. Gregory the Theologian. This sparked a deep spiritual transformation that led him to embrace monastic life.
Defending Orthodox Christology
By the time St. Severus became Patriarch of Antioch in 512 AD, the Christian world was divided over the Council of Chalcedon (451 AD). The council’s language about Christ’s two natures led to confusion and conflict. St. Severus stood firm in defending the teaching that Christ is one incarnate nature of the Word of God—fully divine and fully human without confusion or division. His writings systematically refuted both Nestorianism (which overly separated Christ’s divinity and humanity) and extreme Eutychianism (which denied Christ’s full humanity).
His theological contributions were so powerful that even the Byzantine Church, despite later condemning him, eventually integrated much of his thought into their own Christology.
The Hymns and Writings of St. Severus
St. Severus wasn’t just a theologian—he was also a poet and liturgical writer. He composed over 300 hymns, including the famous O Monogenis (Only Begotten Son), which is still sung in both the Eastern Orthodox and Oriental Orthodox traditions. His sermons and letters, though heavily censored and destroyed by his opponents, remain some of the most profound theological works of the early church.
Exile and Lasting Influence
In 518 AD, Emperor Justin I, who favored the Chalcedonian position, ordered the removal of non-Chalcedonian bishops, including St. Severus. Forced into exile, he fled to Egypt, where he continued writing and teaching. Despite his exile, his influence only grew. His works shaped the theology of the Coptic Church and strengthened the identity of the Oriental Orthodox communion.
Today, both the Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Churches recognize the theological depth of St. Severus’ work. Though historical conflicts kept them apart, his teachings played a crucial role in bridging theological gaps between the two traditions.
Why St. Severus Still Matters
St. Severus of Antioch was more than just a theologian—he was a defender of truth, a pastor who cared deeply for his people, and a scholar whose writings still influence Orthodox theology today. His life reminds us that standing for the truth often comes with challenges.
Next time you hear O Monogenis or reflect on Christ’s incarnation, remember the saint who fought to preserve these truths. St. Severus’ legacy continues to shape the faith of millions, and his writings remain a guide for those seeking to understand the mystery of Christ.