Christian Mystics: Origen of Alexandria (c. 185 – c. 253)

Transformative journey towards God

Origen stands as a monumental third-century figure in the annals of early Christian history, a theologian and scholar whose profound insights into the divine nature, the sacred Scriptures, and the essence of the human soul have left an indelible mark on the evolution of Christian mysticism and theological thought. His remarkable ability to blend intellectual rigour with a deep, heartfelt commitment to spiritual growth presents a model of faith that transcends the simplistic binary of contemplation and critique. Origen's work embodies a holistic approach to understanding and experiencing the Christian faith, one that champions a meticulous and thoughtful examination of doctrine while simultaneously advocating for a deeply personal and transformative engagement with the divine mystery.

This synthesis, which Origen so masterfully represents, offers a pathway for believers that is both intellectually satisfying and spiritually enriching, bridging the gap between the scholarly pursuit of theological truths and the mystic's quest for direct experience of God's presence. His teachings and writings serve as a beacon, guiding followers of Christ through the complexities of biblical interpretation, doctrinal disputes, and the inner workings of the soul's journey towards God. In this way, Origen's legacy continues to resonate with striking relevance in the contemporary spiritual landscape, offering insights and methodologies that enrich the faith journey of modern believers, echoing through the centuries as a testament to the enduring power of a faith that engages both the mind and the heart in the pursuit of divine truth and spiritual fulfilment.

Biography

Origen was born into a devout Christian family in the cosmopolitan city of Alexandria, Egypt, around the year 184 AD, a time when Christianity was still forging its identity amidst a tapestry of religious beliefs and philosophical schools. His early life was steeped in Christian teachings, profoundly shaped by the intellectual and spiritual climate of Alexandria, renowned for its great library and as a centre of learning. The defining moment of his youth came with the martyrdom of his father, Leonides, during one of the sporadic but brutal persecutions of Christians by the Roman authorities. This act of ultimate faith and sacrifice left an indelible mark on young Origen, instilling in him a resolve to dedicate his life to the service of the Christian faith and the pursuit of spiritual and intellectual excellence. My favourite Origen story was the one in which young Origen was eager to be martyred but was unable to leave his house to surrender to the Roman authorities because his mother hit all his clothes!

Inheriting his father's fervent faith and combining it with a voracious appetite for knowledge, Origen embarked on an extraordinary journey of theological inquiry and spiritual exploration. He founded the Christian School of Caesare. Under his leadership, the school became a flourishing centre of Christian learning, attracting students from various parts of the Roman Empire who were drawn by Origen's reputation as a teacher of unmatched erudition and spiritual depth.

Origen's ascetic lifestyle and his dedication to the Christian Scriptures were legendary. He is said to have adhered to an extremely rigorous personal discipline, including fasting, voluntary poverty, and the alleged literal interpretation of Jesus' words in Matthew 19:12, which led him to take extreme measures regarding his own chastity (he was alleged to have castrated himself). His commitment to understanding the Christian Scriptures led him to learn Hebrew and study the Jewish scriptures in their original language, a rare pursuit for a Christian scholar of his time. He was tortured for his faith during the Decian persecution in 250 and died three to four years later from his injuries.

Despite the immense respect and influence he garnered, Origen's later years were marred by controversy, particularly concerning some of his theological speculations, which were later deemed unorthodox by certain segments of the Christian community. His teachings on the pre-existence of souls, the eventual universal reconciliation (apokatastasis) of all creatures, including the devil, to God, and his allegorical interpretation of the Scriptures were subjects of contention. These doctrinal disputes eventually led to his posthumous condemnation in the 5th century, particularly at the Second Council of Constantinople in 553 AD.

Nevertheless, Origen's contributions to Christian theology, biblical exegesis, and mystical spirituality are monumental. His voluminous writings, including commentaries on nearly every book of the Bible, treatises on Christian doctrine, and numerous homilies, laid the foundational stones for the development of Christian thought and practice. His legacy is a testament to the depth of his intellect and the fervor of his faith, bridging the gap between the academic study of Christianity and its lived, mystical experience. Despite the controversies that shadowed his legacy, Origen remains a figure of immense historical significance and a source of inspiration for those seeking to delve deeper into the mysteries of faith, the interpretation of Scripture, and the pursuit of spiritual truth.

Key Teachings

Origen's theological and spiritual teachings are deeply rooted in his understanding of Scripture, and his speculative theological insights offer a rich tapestry of thought that has significantly influenced the development of Christian mysticism and doctrinal formation. His key teachings, notable for their depth and impact, provide a comprehensive framework for engaging with the divine mysteries of Christianity.

1.      Allegorical Interpretation of Scripture

Origen's approach to the Bible was revolutionary for his time. He posited that the Scriptures are not merely historical records or doctrinal treatises but are imbued with layers of meaning that transcend the literal. Origen identified three main levels of scriptural interpretation: the literal or historical, the moral or tropological, and the spiritual or allegorical, which includes the anagogical, pointing towards the eschatological realities. This nuanced approach invites believers into a form of spiritual reading, known as lectio divina, which seeks to uncover the mystical significance hidden within the biblical texts. By promoting this method, Origen fostered a transformative engagement with Scripture, where the act of reading becomes an encounter with the Living Word, leading to personal transformation and a deeper union with God. This perspective encourages believers to view the biblical narrative not just as a collection of stories or commandments but as a vehicle for spiritual insight and divine revelation.

2.      The Pre-existence of Souls and the Journey of the Soul

Origen's speculation on the pre-existence of souls and their journey towards divine restoration offers a dynamic vision of human existence and spirituality. He proposed that souls existed in a state of closeness with God before their embodiment and that earthly life is an opportunity for restoration to that original state. This concept introduces a transformative view of life as a journey or pilgrimage, where each soul is on a path toward reclaiming its primordial closeness with the Divine. This pilgrimage involves ascetic practices, ethical living, and spiritual discipline, aiming to overcome the distractions and attachments of the material world to achieve union with God. Origen's vision of the soul's journey emphasises the process of spiritual growth and purification, highlighting the potential for progress and transformation inherent in the Christian life.

3.      Universal Reconciliation (Apokatastasis)

Origen's belief in apokatastasis, or the eventual restoration of all beings to a state of harmony and unity with God, stands as one of his most controversial yet hopeful teachings. This doctrine posits that through Christ's redemptive work, all creation, including fallen souls and even the devil, will ultimately be reconciled with God. While this view was later condemned by the church, it underscores Origen's optimistic understanding of God's love, mercy, and justice. His belief in universal reconciliation reflects a deep conviction in the boundless scope of divine grace and the ultimate purpose of God's creation - the salvation and restoration of all. This teaching offers a hopeful perspective on the nature of salvation, suggesting a cosmic narrative of redemption where no soul is beyond the reach of God's transformative love.

Origen's key teachings collectively offer a comprehensive and nuanced framework for understanding the Christian faith, emphasising the depth of Scripture, the transformative journey of the soul, and the inclusive scope of salvation. His insights continue to inspire theological reflection and spiritual practice, inviting believers to explore the rich dimensions of faith with intellectual curiosity and mystical devotion.

Relevance to Contemporary Christian Spirituality

Origen's profound contributions to Christian theology and spirituality extend far-reaching implications for contemporary Christian life, offering a rich repository of wisdom that speaks directly to the challenges and aspirations of modern believers. His approach to Scripture, spirituality, and intellectual inquiry provides a holistic model for engaging with faith in a deeply meaningful way. While there are still controversies about his teachings, we can still learn from this man of God.

1.      Deep Engagement with Scripture

Origen's method of allegorical and spiritual interpretation of the Bible invites contemporary Christians into a deeper, more reflective engagement with Scripture. In an era where superficial reading often prevails, Origen’s approach encourages believers to see the Bible as a multi-layered text, full of spiritual depth and wisdom that can only be uncovered through prayerful meditation and contemplation. This kind of engagement transforms Scripture reading from a routine practice into a dynamic encounter with God, where every verse and story can offer profound insights into our lives and our spiritual journey. It challenges modern Christians to approach the Bible not merely as a historical document or a set of ethical guidelines but as a living, breathing Word that speaks directly to the complexities and nuances of the human experience.

2.      Pursuit of Spiritual Transformation

Origen's vision of the Christian life as a journey of continual growth and transformation toward divine perfection offers a compelling framework for contemporary spirituality. In a culture often dominated by the search for instant gratification and superficial solutions, Origen’s emphasis on the slow, disciplined path of spiritual maturation is particularly relevant. His teachings remind us that true spiritual transformation requires persistent effort, including prayer, fasting, contemplation, and the practice of virtues. This vision invites believers today to embrace a spirituality that is both ascetic and deeply personal, acknowledging the ongoing nature of conversion and sanctification. It encourages a commitment to practices that foster spiritual depth and maturity, grounding the Christian life in an ongoing pursuit of holiness and union with God.

3.      Intellectual Inquiry within Faith

In a world where faith and reason are often portrayed as conflicting forces, Origen’s example of intellectual rigour in defence of Christian beliefs offers a powerful model for contemporary believers. His work, particularly in "Against Celsus," showcases the importance of engaging the intellect alongside faith. Origen's approach to apologetics and theological exploration demonstrates that questioning, studying, and debating are not contrary to faith but are essential aspects of a vibrant spiritual life. This perspective is invaluable for Christians today, living in a pluralistic society where faith must interact with a multitude of worldviews and ideologies. Origen’s example encourages believers to engage thoughtfully with their faith, to question and seek understanding, and to articulate their beliefs in ways that are both intellectually robust and deeply rooted in Christian tradition.

Origen’s contributions, therefore, not only enrich the theological and spiritual heritage of Christianity but also offer practical pathways for living out one’s faith in the contemporary world. His teachings on Scripture, the journey of spiritual transformation, and the integration of faith with intellectual inquiry continue to inspire and guide those seeking to deepen their relationship with God and to navigate the challenges of living a Christian life in the modern age. Origen’s legacy, with its deep commitment to the pursuit of truth, the transformative power of spiritual practice, and the engagement of the intellect in faith, remains a beacon for contemporary Christians, calling them to a more profound and holistic expression of their faith.

Conclusion

Origen of Alexandria has always been a man whose contributions to Christian theology, spirituality, and mysticism continue to resonate with profound significance in the contemporary spiritual landscape. His innovative approach to Scripture, his deep commitment to the transformative journey of the soul, and his integration of intellectual inquiry with deep faith have left an indelible mark on the Christian tradition. Origen's teachings and writings invite us into a space where the mystical pursuit of God is deeply intertwined with the rigour of theological reflection and the lived experience of faith.

Origen's legacy is particularly relevant in today's world, where the thirst for spiritual depth and authenticity often encounters the challenges of superficiality and scepticism. By championing a mystical approach to Christianity that embraces both the intellect and the soul's deepest longings, Origen provides a timeless model for those seeking to navigate the complexities of modern spirituality. His emphasis on the allegorical and spiritual interpretation of Scripture opens up avenues for encountering the Divine in ways that transcend the literal and historical, inviting believers into a transformative relationship with the Word of God that is both intimate and intellectually satisfying.

Moreover, Origen's vision of the soul's journey towards divine union offers a compelling framework for understanding the Christian life as an ongoing process of spiritual growth and transformation. This journey, characterised by prayer, contemplation, and the practice of virtue, echoes the heart of mystical tradition, where the ultimate goal is union with the Divine. In a world hungry for meaning and connection, Origen's emphasis on the transformative power of spiritual practice and his hopeful vision of universal reconciliation speak directly to contemporary desires for a faith that is both inclusive and capable of transforming hearts and minds.

Ultimately, Origen's contributions to Christian mysticism remind us that the pursuit of God is not a passive endeavour but a dynamic and ongoing journey of discovery, transformation, and deepening love. His life and work invite contemporary Christians to embrace a spirituality that is intellectually robust, deeply mystical, and passionately committed to the pursuit of divine truth and love. In doing so, Origen's legacy offers a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration for all who seek to deepen their spiritual journey in an ever-changing world, reminding us of the profound mystery at the heart of the Christian faith and the boundless possibilities for encountering God in the depths of the human soul.

Reflection Questions

1. How does Origen's approach to the allegorical interpretation of Scripture challenge or enrich your personal engagement with the Bible, and in what ways can you incorporate this method to deepen your spiritual understanding and relationship with God?

2. Consider Origen's concept of the soul's pre-existence and journey towards divine union, reflect on your spiritual journey. Do you agree with him? How do you perceive your progress towards spiritual maturity and closeness with God, and what practices or changes could you implement to foster a deeper transformation?

3. In light of Origen's belief in universal reconciliation and the transformative power of God's love and mercy, how does this perspective influence your understanding of salvation, grace, and the nature of God? Do you agree with him? How can this belief shape your interactions with others and your approach to the broader world?

Further Reading

Von Balthasar, Hans Urs. 1984. Origen: Spirit and Fire. Washington, D.C.: Catholic University of America Press.

Translated by Robert J. Daly, this work presents a thematic collection of Origen's writings, selected and interpreted by the renowned theologian Hans Urs von Balthasar. It highlights Origen's spiritual and mystical theology, offering insights into his understanding of the Christian faith as a transformative journey toward God.