Theosis, also known as exaltation, divinization, or deification, is a transformative process in Christian theology whereby a human being becomes united with God, participating in the divine nature. This concept is rooted in the belief that humans are created in the image of God and are called to become partakers of His divine essence.
Theological Foundation of Theosis
Biblical Basis
The idea of theosis is deeply rooted in the Bible. Key scriptural passages that support this doctrine include:
Genesis 1:26-27: "Then God said, ‘Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness...’ So God created mankind in his own image, in the image of God he created them; male and female he created them." This passage establishes the foundational belief that humans are made in the image of God, implying an inherent potential for divinity.
2 Peter 1:4: "...he has given us his very great and precious promises, so that through them you may participate in the divine nature, having escaped the corruption in the world caused by evil desires." This verse directly speaks to the participation in the divine nature, a central theme in theosis.
John 10:34: "Jesus answered them, ‘Is it not written in your Law, ‘I have said you are "gods"’?" Jesus refers to Psalm 82:6, where humans are called "gods" and "children of the Most High."
Early Church Fathers
The concept of theosis was extensively developed by the early Church Fathers. St. Athanasius famously stated, "God became man so that man might become god." This encapsulates the belief that through Christ's incarnation, humanity is given the opportunity to ascend to divine life.
Process of Theosis
Theosis is often described as a journey through three stages: the animal level, the human level, and the spiritual level.
Animal Level
At the animal level, humans are driven primarily by basic instincts and desires. This stage is characterized by a focus on survival, physical needs, and material concerns. It represents the starting point of human existence, where the divine image is present but not fully actualized.
Human Level
The human level is marked by a higher degree of rationality, morality, and self-awareness. At this stage, individuals begin to exercise their free will and reason, striving to live virtuous lives. The divine image becomes more apparent as people seek truth, goodness, and beauty. Ethical living and a quest for meaning define this phase.
Spiritual Level
The spiritual level signifies a profound transformation where individuals are progressively united with God. This stage involves deep prayer, participation in the sacraments, and living a life of holiness. It is characterized by the cultivation of virtues, purification of the heart, and illumination of the mind. The ultimate goal is the complete divinization of the person, where the image of God within them is fully realized, and they become partakers of the divine nature.
Becoming God's Children
Theosis teaches that all people are called to become "children of God" in the fullest sense. This is not merely a metaphorical status but a real transformation. Through the sacraments, especially Baptism and the Eucharist, believers are incorporated into the life of Christ and begin their journey towards divinization. The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in this process, sanctifying and transforming the individual from within.
Participation in Divine Life
Participation in divine life means sharing in God's eternal attributes such as love, holiness, and immortality. It is a dynamic and ongoing process that involves:
Prayer and Worship: Regular communication with God through prayer and participation in liturgical worship.
Sacraments: Engaging in the sacraments as means of grace that confer divine life.
Virtuous Living: Cultivating virtues and living according to God's commandments.
Spiritual Growth: Continuous spiritual development through reading Scripture, spiritual guidance, and personal discipline.
Theosis, or deification, represents the highest calling of humanity in Christian theology. It is the process by which humans, made in the image of God, are transformed to become like God, participating in His divine nature. This transformative journey requires moving from a purely animalistic existence to a rational and ethical human life, and ultimately to a spiritual existence where one is united with God. Through this process, believers truly become God's children, reflecting His divine glory and sharing in His eternal life.
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