Theodoret of Cyrrhus

Theodoret of Cyrrhus

(born c. 393, Antioch, Syria—died c. 458/466) Syrian theologian and bishop whose writings were a moderating influence on the 5th-century Christological disputes. First a monk, he became bishop of Cyrrhus (near Antioch) by 423. Influenced by St. John Chrysostom and Theodore of Mopsuestia, he opposed allegorical interpretations of scripture and attributed a human nature to Christ. Accused of being a Nestorian heretic, he made conciliatory statements accepting the term “god-bearer” for Mary (thereby stressing Jesus' divinity). He was declared a heretic nevertheless (449) and was sent into exile. He was partially vindicated by the Council of Chalcedon (451), which agreed to declare him orthodox provided he condemn his friend Nestorius, and he reluctantly complied.