Back to Timeline
c. 155 – 325 AD
Origen of Alexandria
c. 185 – c. 253 AD
Alexandria, Egypt
Overview
A towering biblical scholar whose learning seemed almost inexhaustible. He pioneered large-scale scriptural commentary and a deeply spiritual reading of the Bible.
Did You Know?
Some of his speculative ideas—especially on the pre-existence of souls and the final restoration of all beings—were later condemned, so he is not honored as a saint in the Catholic or Orthodox traditions.
Theological Warning
Not a SaintSome teachings associated with him, especially the pre-existence of souls and a universal restoration often linked with Apokatastasis, were condemned in later centuries.
Status: Not a Saint. He is still read with admiration and caution: one of the Church's greatest minds, but not a safe guide on every point.
Major Writings
On First Principles (De Principiis)
The first systematic theology (contains some of his condemned speculations).
ReadRead Origen of Alexandria’s Commentary
See what Origen of Alexandria wrote about Scripture. Open any book in the Bible reader and switch to the Commentary tab to find their insights.
Open Bible ReaderHistorical Context
The Ante-Nicene Fathers
Apologists, pastors, and theologians writing before Nicaea, often under pressure from persecution and from rival visions of Christianity.
7 Church Fathers in this era
View All Fathers
Part of The Ante-Nicene Fathers