Abstract
Towards a Better Understanding of Gender in Christianity
Protopresbyter Bassam A. Nassif
After reviewing contemporary research about the state of gender in eschatology, one finds clear discrepancies in the interpretations expressing various Patristic views on this matter. Some claim that the Holy Fathers, and especially Saint Maximus the Confessor, believed that gender did not exist before the fall, but was introduced to humans because of the fall, and will be abolished in eternity. This interpretation, which is supported by various gender ideologies, affirms that gender is not part of human nature, and thus justifies gender affirming surgeries. This article revisits original Patristic texts on this subject, such as the works of Saints Gregory of Nyssa, John Chrysostom, and Maximus the Confessor. It shows that those Fathers speak about gender not being abolished, but transfigured. This transfiguration occurs when humans reach the summit of dispassion in divine virtue, leading to the perfection of love, through the synergy of divine grace and human will. This is shown through various saintly models–male or female, in marriage or in celibacy–that have reflected throughout the centuries the transfigured beauty of God’s image. The epiclesis of the Holy Spirit, in fervent harmony with humanity, continues to transfigure both man and woman, rendering them earthly angels without losing their natural gender identity. This study reveals how all this divine economy opens the way for humanity to a great mystery: the mystical marriage with Christ.
Keywords: Orthodox Church, Anthropology, Eschatology, Body, Gender, Marriage, Maximus the Confessor, John Chrysostom, Gregory of Nyssa.
