365betÓéÀÖ

The concept of Intellectual in Christianity

In the context of Christianity, the term "Intellectual" encompasses multiple meanings. It refers to those capable of receiving revelation, akin to children. In Eastern Orthodoxy, it describes superior blessed beings and their immaterial inheritance, contrasting with the physical world. Early Christianity attributes the term to the spiritual interpretation of scripture, particularly emphasized by Origen, marking it as the pinnacle of understanding. Each perspective highlights a different dimension of intellectual engagement within the faith.1
gallery thumb

Synonyms: Cognitive, Mental, Rational, Learned, Brainy, Knowledgeable, Erudite, Academic, Cultivated, Knowledgeable.

The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.

Christian concept of 'Intellectual'

Christianity Books

Significance in Early Christian church and writers:
Early Christianity Books

From: Ante-nicene Fathers

(1) This is another name for the spiritual sense of scripture, which is the focus of Origen's interpretation and considered the highest level of understanding.[1]

Early Christianity (also known as Early Church) refers to the period starting roughly in the 6th century BC up until 325 A.D. during which year the first council of Nicaea was convened. Popular literature includes the writings by the early Church Fathers which forms the basis of later Christian theology.

Significance in Christianity (general):

From: Bible cyclopedia, critical and expository

(1) The people who should hear all revelation, as much as the little ones.[2]

Significance in Eastern Orthodoxy (or the Eastern Orthodox Church):
Eastern Orthodoxy Books

From: The Works of Dionysius the Areopagite

(1) This is a term used to describe the nature of the blessed Beings who are superior to us, and also used to describe the immaterial inheritance of the supermundane and blessed, as opposed to the sensible world.[3]

Eastern Orthodoxy, or Byzantine Christianity, is one of the three main branches of Christianity. It consists of independently governed churches with strong cultural ties to Eastern and Southeastern Europe. Eastern Orthodox theology focuses on the Holy Trinity: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. Believers strive for theosis, or becoming closer to God, through grace and spiritual practices.  

Plural form: Intellectuals.