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c. 155 – 325 AD
Origen of Alexandria
c. 184 – 253 AD
Alexandria, Egypt
Overview
A genius scholar and prolific writer who pioneered allegorical interpretation of the Bible.
Did You Know?
While brilliant, his speculations (like the pre-existence of souls) were later condemned, so he is not a "Saint" in the East or West.
Theological Warning
Not a SaintCondemned Views. He speculated that souls existed before birth (pre-existence) and that everyone, including Satan, would eventually be saved (Apokatastasis). These views were officially condemned as heresy 300 years later at the Second Council of Constantinople (553 AD).
Status: Not a Saint. However, he is still widely read for his brilliance, with a 'warning label' attached.
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
The "Apologists" and early theologians living under persecution before the Council of Nicaea.
7 Church Fathers in this era
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Part of The Ante-Nicene Fathers