✨☦️EASTERN ORTHODOX HISTORY LESSON ☦️✨

[holy]

THREAD MUSIC:

​

---

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. INTRODUCTION
2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH
3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS
4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
5. THE GREAT SCHISM
6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE
7. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY
8. MODERN ERA
9. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES
10. THEOLOGY
11. UNIQUE FEATURES
12. MODERN CHALLENGES
13. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE
14. CONLUSION
​

---

1. INTRODUCTION

In this thread, I will be diving into this magnificent fucking beast of a tradition
that makes Roman Catholicism look like it was invented yesterday.
​

---

2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH

It all starts with the Apostles themselves.

While Rome likes to jack off about Peter, the Eastern Church was established by several Apostles:

Andrew

John

Paul

and others who established churches across Greece, Asia Minor, and the East.

These churches preserved their apostolic succession like it was precious metal.

The early centers were Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, and Constantinople (once it became a thing).

These weren't just random cities but were intellectual powerhouses.

While Western Europe was getting its ass kicked by barbarians, the East was having sophisticated theological debates that would make modern philosophers cry.
​

---

3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS

Let's talk about the seven councils that shaped Christian orthodoxy:

- Nicaea (325):
Smacked down Arius who thought Jesus was just a super-cool created being

- Constantinople I (381):
Cleared up the whole Holy Spirit thing

- Ephesus (431):
Told Nestorius to shut the fuck up about separating Christ's natures

- Chalcedon (451):
Defined how Christ's divine and human natures work together

- Constantinople II (553):
More Christological cleanup

- Constantinople III (680-681):
Settled the Monothelite controversy

- Nicaea II (787):
Said icons are actually cool and good

---

4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES

The Eastern Orthodox developed their own shit:

- Heavy emphasis on theosis (becoming like GOD)
- Essence-Energies distinction (GOD's essence is unknowable but His energies are participable)
- Apophatic theology (defining GOD by what He isn't)
- No original guilt inheritance (just death and corruption)
- Synergy between GOD grace and human free will

​

---

5. THE GREAT SCHISM

1054 CE. The big breakup.

Here are the main issues:

- Filioque controversy (whether the Holy Spirit proceeds from Father and Son or just Father)
- Papal supremacy (Rome getting too big for its britches)
- Azymes (unleavened bread controversy)
- Different theological methods and emphases

But it wasn't just theological.
Cultural and political tensions between East and West played huge roles.
​

---

6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE

After Constantinople fell in 1453, Orthodox Christians lived under Ottoman rule for centuries.
But instead of dying out, they preserved their faith with incredible tenacity.
The Ottomans had a "millet" system that gave Orthodox some autonomy.

SOURCE:

​

---

6. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY

Russia becomes the "Third Rome" after Constantinople's fall.
Russian Orthodoxy develops its own flavor while maintaining communion with other Orthodox churches.
It becomes a major force until the Bolshevik Revolution fucks everything up.

​

---

7. MODERN ERA

- Orthodox churches maintain independence while keeping unity in faith
- Each autocephalous church handles its own affairs
- Pan-Orthodox councils address common issues
- Strong emphasis on maintaining unbroken tradition
- Growing presence in the West through converts
- Still dealing with issues like calendar differences and jurisdictional disputes
​

---

8. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES

- Divine Liturgy basically unchanged since John Chrysostom
- Standing for worship (pews are for pussies)
- Intense fasting practices (Catholics think giving up meat on Fridays is hard? Cute.)
- Icons everywhere as windows to heaven
- Jesus Prayer tradition ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner")
- Hesychasm (mystical prayer practice)
​

---

9. THEOLOGY

- Trinity understood through experience rather than philosophical speculation
- Salvation seen as therapeutic rather than juridical
- Strong pneumatological emphasis (Holy Spirit isn't a forgotten appendix)
- No purgatory, but prayers for dead are important
- Original sin viewed differently from Western understanding
- Mystery emphasized over systematic explanation
​

---

10. UNIQUE FEATURES

- Married priests (but celibate bishops)
- No "development of doctrine" like Catholics
- Decisions by consensus rather than papal decree
- Heavy use of holy oils, incense, and physical elements
- Focus on transfiguration of creation rather than just souls going to heaven
​

---

11. MODERN CHALLENGES

- Jurisdictional overlap in diaspora
- Relationship with other Christians
- Modernity and secularization
- Political pressures in traditional Orthodox countries
- Balance of tradition and contemporary life
​

---

12. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE

- Never had a reformation because they didn't need one
- Maintained apostolic tradition through Islamic rule
- Preserved ancient liturgical practices
- Survived communist persecution
- Doesn't water down teaching to be popular
- Still does 4-hour services standing up
- Fasting practices that would make most modern Christians cry
- Won't compromise doctrine for ecumenical brownie points
​

---

13. CONCLUSION

The Eastern Orthodox Church is basically Christianity's old school hardass grandfather who still does things the ancient way and doesn't give a fuck about modern sensibilities.
While other traditions are trying to be relevant and cool, Orthodoxy is giving you what the Apostles taught.
Take it or leave it.

It's not just the oldest continuous Christian tradition but the one that most faithfully preserves the practices and beliefs of the early church.
While Rome was innovating and Protestants were protesting those innovations, the East was just keeping on keeping on.

That's why converts often say "Orthodoxy is what you get when you follow Christian history backwards."
It's Christianity without the medieval Roman additions or Protestant subtractions.

That is Eastern Orthodoxy.
The church that's been doing its thing since the Apostles and doesn't plan on changing anytime soon.
​

---

- holy​

 

[shizuku11111]

ur a victim, religion is not real, all these christians read the bible but dont even understand purpose and what Jesus was trying to teach

 

[holy]

ur a victim, religion is not real, all these christians read the bible but dont even understand purpose and what Jesus was trying to teach

I respect your opinion. Can I ask what you mean by:

ur a victim, religion is not real

and

christian read the bible but dont even understand purpose and what Jesus was trying to teach

 

[lykoris]

Dnr but nice icons i have some myself from when i was still christian

 

[holy]

Dnr but nice icons i have some myself from when i was still christian

Where'd you stash them?

 

[lykoris]

Where'd you stash them?

I have them hung on my wall

 

[shizuku11111]

I respect your opinion. Can I ask what you mean by:



and

Jesus never taught religion he taught the way of life, he was teaching that true God is in you, in me, in everyone, knowing thyself is true God, i really cant be bothered explaining everything but in short, WE are consciousness itself, we are the universe experiencing itself, humans are way more than worshipping jesus, i was christina before but then i started understanding spritiuallity on another level

 

[lykoris]

Jesus never taught religion he taught the way of life, he was teaching that true God is in you, in me, in everyone, knowing thyself is true God, i really cant be bothered explaining everything but in short, WE are consciousness itself, we are the universe experiencing itself, humans are way more than worshipping jesus, i was christina before but then i started understanding spritiuallity on another level

Reading this is lifefuel for narcys

 

[PsychoH]

THREAD MUSIC:

​

---

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. INTRODUCTION
2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH
3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS
4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
5. THE GREAT SCHISM
6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE
7. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY
8. MODERN ERA
9. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES
10. THEOLOGY
11. UNIQUE FEATURES
12. MODERN CHALLENGES
13. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE
14. CONLUSION
​

---

1. INTRODUCTION

In this thread, I will be diving into this magnificent fucking beast of a tradition
that makes Roman Catholicism look like it was invented yesterday.
​

---

2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH

It all starts with the Apostles themselves.

While Rome likes to jack off about Peter, the Eastern Church was established by several Apostles:

Andrew

John

Paul

and others who established churches across Greece, Asia Minor, and the East.

These churches preserved their apostolic succession like it was precious metal.

The early centers were Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, and Constantinople (once it became a thing).
View attachment 3344683
These weren't just random cities but were intellectual powerhouses.

While Western Europe was getting its ass kicked by barbarians, the East was having sophisticated theological debates that would make modern philosophers cry.
​

---

3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS

Let's talk about the seven councils that shaped Christian orthodoxy:

- Nicaea (325):
Smacked down Arius who thought Jesus was just a super-cool created being

- Constantinople I (381):
Cleared up the whole Holy Spirit thing

- Ephesus (431):
Told Nestorius to shut the fuck up about separating Christ's natures

- Chalcedon (451):
Defined how Christ's divine and human natures work together

- Constantinople II (553):
More Christological cleanup

- Constantinople III (680-681):
Settled the Monothelite controversy

- Nicaea II (787):
Said icons are actually cool and good

View attachment 3344701​

---

4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
View attachment 3344765

The Eastern Orthodox developed their own shit:

- Heavy emphasis on theosis (becoming like GOD)
- Essence-Energies distinction (GOD's essence is unknowable but His energies are participable)
- Apophatic theology (defining GOD by what He isn't)
- No original guilt inheritance (just death and corruption)
- Synergy between GOD grace and human free will

View attachment 3344741
​

---

5. THE GREAT SCHISM

1054 CE. The big breakup.

Here are the main issues:

- Filioque controversy (whether the Holy Spirit proceeds from Father and Son or just Father)
- Papal supremacy (Rome getting too big for its britches)
- Azymes (unleavened bread controversy)
- Different theological methods and emphases

View attachment 3344778

But it wasn't just theological.
Cultural and political tensions between East and West played huge roles.
​

---

6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE

After Constantinople fell in 1453, Orthodox Christians lived under Ottoman rule for centuries.
But instead of dying out, they preserved their faith with incredible tenacity.
The Ottomans had a "millet" system that gave Orthodox some autonomy.

SOURCE:

View attachment 3344795
​

---

6. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY

Russia becomes the "Third Rome" after Constantinople's fall.
Russian Orthodoxy develops its own flavor while maintaining communion with other Orthodox churches.
It becomes a major force until the Bolshevik Revolution fucks everything up.

View attachment 3344809
​

---

7. MODERN ERA

- Orthodox churches maintain independence while keeping unity in faith
- Each autocephalous church handles its own affairs
- Pan-Orthodox councils address common issues
- Strong emphasis on maintaining unbroken tradition
- Growing presence in the West through converts
- Still dealing with issues like calendar differences and jurisdictional disputes
​

---

8. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES

- Divine Liturgy basically unchanged since John Chrysostom
- Standing for worship (pews are for pussies)
- Intense fasting practices (Catholics think giving up meat on Fridays is hard? Cute.)
- Icons everywhere as windows to heaven
- Jesus Prayer tradition ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner")
- Hesychasm (mystical prayer practice)
​

---

9. THEOLOGY

- Trinity understood through experience rather than philosophical speculation
- Salvation seen as therapeutic rather than juridical
- Strong pneumatological emphasis (Holy Spirit isn't a forgotten appendix)
- No purgatory, but prayers for dead are important
- Original sin viewed differently from Western understanding
- Mystery emphasized over systematic explanation
​

---

10. UNIQUE FEATURES

- Married priests (but celibate bishops)
- No "development of doctrine" like Catholics
- Decisions by consensus rather than papal decree
- Heavy use of holy oils, incense, and physical elements
- Focus on transfiguration of creation rather than just souls going to heaven
​

---

11. MODERN CHALLENGES

- Jurisdictional overlap in diaspora
- Relationship with other Christians
- Modernity and secularization
- Political pressures in traditional Orthodox countries
- Balance of tradition and contemporary life
​

---

12. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE

- Never had a reformation because they didn't need one
- Maintained apostolic tradition through Islamic rule
- Preserved ancient liturgical practices
- Survived communist persecution
- Doesn't water down teaching to be popular
- Still does 4-hour services standing up
- Fasting practices that would make most modern Christians cry
- Won't compromise doctrine for ecumenical brownie points
​

---

13. CONCLUSION

The Eastern Orthodox Church is basically Christianity's old school hardass grandfather who still does things the ancient way and doesn't give a fuck about modern sensibilities.
While other traditions are trying to be relevant and cool, Orthodoxy is giving you what the Apostles taught.
Take it or leave it.

It's not just the oldest continuous Christian tradition but the one that most faithfully preserves the practices and beliefs of the early church.
While Rome was innovating and Protestants were protesting those innovations, the East was just keeping on keeping on.

That's why converts often say "Orthodoxy is what you get when you follow Christian history backwards."
It's Christianity without the medieval Roman additions or Protestant subtractions.

That is Eastern Orthodoxy.
The church that's been doing its thing since the Apostles and doesn't plan on changing anytime soon.
​

---

- holy​

@PrinceLuenLeoncur @org3cel.RR @GodHimself

 

[shizuku11111]

Reading this is lifefuel for narcys

narcys are lowest of the low and will always stay on the lowest level of consciousness

 

[PsychoH]

ur a victim, religion is not real, all these christians read the bible but dont even understand purpose and what Jesus was trying to teach

what a blasphemous cope.

 

[lykoris]

narcys are lowest of the low and will always stay on the lowest level of consciousness

Absolutely not. What you do subconsciously we proudly do consciously.

 

[johnypvpgod]

Im an ex orthodox, its a gay af similar to redpill religion.

 

[shia.jihadist]

mirin rare username

 

[shizuku11111]

what a blasphemous cope.

u didnt even read what i said below, once u start understanding spirtuality u will understand religion is cope thats keeping u at low level of consciousness

 

[PsychoH]

u didnt even read what i said below, once u start understanding spirtuality u will understand religion is cope thats keeping u at low level of consciousness

it isnt and i understand exactly what kind of "high thinking" paganism you speak about.

 

[HeavyMetalcel]

THREAD MUSIC:

​

---

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. INTRODUCTION
2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH
3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS
4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
5. THE GREAT SCHISM
6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE
7. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY
8. MODERN ERA
9. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES
10. THEOLOGY
11. UNIQUE FEATURES
12. MODERN CHALLENGES
13. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE
14. CONLUSION
​

---

1. INTRODUCTION

In this thread, I will be diving into this magnificent fucking beast of a tradition
that makes Roman Catholicism look like it was invented yesterday.
​

---

2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH

It all starts with the Apostles themselves.

While Rome likes to jack off about Peter, the Eastern Church was established by several Apostles:

Andrew

John

Paul

and others who established churches across Greece, Asia Minor, and the East.

These churches preserved their apostolic succession like it was precious metal.

The early centers were Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, and Constantinople (once it became a thing).
View attachment 3344683
These weren't just random cities but were intellectual powerhouses.

While Western Europe was getting its ass kicked by barbarians, the East was having sophisticated theological debates that would make modern philosophers cry.
​

---

3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS

Let's talk about the seven councils that shaped Christian orthodoxy:

- Nicaea (325):
Smacked down Arius who thought Jesus was just a super-cool created being

- Constantinople I (381):
Cleared up the whole Holy Spirit thing

- Ephesus (431):
Told Nestorius to shut the fuck up about separating Christ's natures

- Chalcedon (451):
Defined how Christ's divine and human natures work together

- Constantinople II (553):
More Christological cleanup

- Constantinople III (680-681):
Settled the Monothelite controversy

- Nicaea II (787):
Said icons are actually cool and good

View attachment 3344701​

---

4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
View attachment 3344765

The Eastern Orthodox developed their own shit:

- Heavy emphasis on theosis (becoming like GOD)
- Essence-Energies distinction (GOD's essence is unknowable but His energies are participable)
- Apophatic theology (defining GOD by what He isn't)
- No original guilt inheritance (just death and corruption)
- Synergy between GOD grace and human free will

View attachment 3344741
​

---

5. THE GREAT SCHISM

1054 CE. The big breakup.

Here are the main issues:

- Filioque controversy (whether the Holy Spirit proceeds from Father and Son or just Father)
- Papal supremacy (Rome getting too big for its britches)
- Azymes (unleavened bread controversy)
- Different theological methods and emphases

View attachment 3344778

But it wasn't just theological.
Cultural and political tensions between East and West played huge roles.
​

---

6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE

After Constantinople fell in 1453, Orthodox Christians lived under Ottoman rule for centuries.
But instead of dying out, they preserved their faith with incredible tenacity.
The Ottomans had a "millet" system that gave Orthodox some autonomy.

SOURCE:

View attachment 3344795
​

---

6. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY

Russia becomes the "Third Rome" after Constantinople's fall.
Russian Orthodoxy develops its own flavor while maintaining communion with other Orthodox churches.
It becomes a major force until the Bolshevik Revolution fucks everything up.

View attachment 3344809
​

---

7. MODERN ERA

- Orthodox churches maintain independence while keeping unity in faith
- Each autocephalous church handles its own affairs
- Pan-Orthodox councils address common issues
- Strong emphasis on maintaining unbroken tradition
- Growing presence in the West through converts
- Still dealing with issues like calendar differences and jurisdictional disputes
​

---

8. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES

- Divine Liturgy basically unchanged since John Chrysostom
- Standing for worship (pews are for pussies)
- Intense fasting practices (Catholics think giving up meat on Fridays is hard? Cute.)
- Icons everywhere as windows to heaven
- Jesus Prayer tradition ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner")
- Hesychasm (mystical prayer practice)
​

---

9. THEOLOGY

- Trinity understood through experience rather than philosophical speculation
- Salvation seen as therapeutic rather than juridical
- Strong pneumatological emphasis (Holy Spirit isn't a forgotten appendix)
- No purgatory, but prayers for dead are important
- Original sin viewed differently from Western understanding
- Mystery emphasized over systematic explanation
​

---

10. UNIQUE FEATURES

- Married priests (but celibate bishops)
- No "development of doctrine" like Catholics
- Decisions by consensus rather than papal decree
- Heavy use of holy oils, incense, and physical elements
- Focus on transfiguration of creation rather than just souls going to heaven
​

---

11. MODERN CHALLENGES

- Jurisdictional overlap in diaspora
- Relationship with other Christians
- Modernity and secularization
- Political pressures in traditional Orthodox countries
- Balance of tradition and contemporary life
​

---

12. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE

- Never had a reformation because they didn't need one
- Maintained apostolic tradition through Islamic rule
- Preserved ancient liturgical practices
- Survived communist persecution
- Doesn't water down teaching to be popular
- Still does 4-hour services standing up
- Fasting practices that would make most modern Christians cry
- Won't compromise doctrine for ecumenical brownie points
​

---

13. CONCLUSION

The Eastern Orthodox Church is basically Christianity's old school hardass grandfather who still does things the ancient way and doesn't give a fuck about modern sensibilities.
While other traditions are trying to be relevant and cool, Orthodoxy is giving you what the Apostles taught.
Take it or leave it.

It's not just the oldest continuous Christian tradition but the one that most faithfully preserves the practices and beliefs of the early church.
While Rome was innovating and Protestants were protesting those innovations, the East was just keeping on keeping on.

That's why converts often say "Orthodoxy is what you get when you follow Christian history backwards."
It's Christianity without the medieval Roman additions or Protestant subtractions.

That is Eastern Orthodoxy.
The church that's been doing its thing since the Apostles and doesn't plan on changing anytime soon.
​

---

- holy​

dnr, God doesn't care about me at all

 

[shizuku11111]

it isnt and i understand exactly what kind of "high thinking" paganism you speak about.

keep coping

 

[PsychoH]

keep coping

the BULL said:
Chadlite

 

[Carbine]

dnr, God doesn't care about me at all

Relative thoughts

 

[holy]

Jesus never taught religion he taught the way of life, he was teaching that true God is in you, in me, in everyone, knowing thyself is true God, i really cant be bothered explaining everything but in short, WE are consciousness itself, we are the universe experiencing itself, humans are way more than worshipping jesus, i was christina before but then i started understanding spritiuallity on another level

So, you claim:

WE are consciousness itself

This collapses under its own philosophical weight when confronted with the moral reality of human experience.

If consciousness is divine and inherently good, how do we account for the profound moral evil that exists?

The existence of genuine, objectively recognizable evil fundamentally contradicts the notion of an immanent, universally benevolent consciousness.

Let me break this down.

1. "True God is in you"

That philosophically incoherent statement fails basic logical scrutiny.

If divinity is merely subjective consciousness, how do we distinguish between moral good and profound evil? Your framework provides no objective standard of moral evaluation.

2. Jesus's teachings were not some amorphous "way of life" disconnected from religious tradition. He was explicitly theological, presenting a radical understanding of God's nature that was deeply rooted in Jewish theological thought. He didn't abolish religion but literally fulfilled and transformed religious understanding.

3. The Christian understanding of God is not a passive, pantheistic "universal consciousness" but an active, personal moral agent.

This distinction is so fucking important.

Without an objective moral foundation, your "spirituality" devolves into moral relativism (a philosophical dead-end that cannot sustain genuine ethical reasoning)

Here are the logical consequences of your position:

- If "we are the universe experiencing itself," how do we account for individual moral responsibility?
- How does your framework provide any meaningful distinction between compassionate action and destructive behavior?
- What mechanism exists for moral judgment if consciousness is merely a self-referential experience?

The Christian theological model provides what your superficial spirituality cannot: a robust, coherent framework for understanding moral reality, human dignity, and transcendent purpose.

You reject religious tradition, which is just intellectual capitulation.

You've traded rigorous theological scholarship for a cheap, consumerist spirituality that offers the illusion of depth while providing no substantive philosophical infrastructure.

I challenge YOU to demonstrate how your "understanding spirituality on another level" provides:

- A coherent explanation of moral evil
- A framework for individual moral responsibility
- A basis for human dignity beyond subjective experience

Personally, your statement is just a philosophical surrender, a retreat from the complex, challenging work of genuine spiritual and intellectual inquiry.

In the words of philosophers far more nuanced than your Instagram-level spiritual platitudes: True understanding demands more than feeling. It requires rigorous, disciplined intellectual engagement with the most challenging questions of human existence.

 

[shizuku11111]

the BULL said:
Chadlite

what does that have to do with topic we r talking abt

 

[PsychoH]

what does that have to do with topic we r talking abt

the BULL said:
Chadlite

 

[holy]

God doesn't care about me at all

Your nihilistic way of thinking has brought you to that conclusion, which simply false.

 

[Kudagaisme]

Jesus never taught religion he taught the way of life, he was teaching that true God is in you, in me, in everyone, knowing thyself is true God, i really cant be bothered explaining everything but in short, WE are consciousness itself, we are the universe experiencing itself, humans are way more than worshipping jesus, i was christina before but then i started understanding spritiuallity on another level

 

[HeavyMetalcel]

Your nihilistic way of thinking has brought you to that conclusion, which simply false.

I'm not a nihilist, far from it, but I just personally don't see how God cares about humanity as a whole.

 

[PrinceLuenLeoncur]

THREAD MUSIC:

​

---

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. INTRODUCTION
2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH
3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS
4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
5. THE GREAT SCHISM
6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE
7. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY
8. MODERN ERA
9. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES
10. THEOLOGY
11. UNIQUE FEATURES
12. MODERN CHALLENGES
13. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE
14. CONLUSION
​

---

1. INTRODUCTION

In this thread, I will be diving into this magnificent fucking beast of a tradition
that makes Roman Catholicism look like it was invented yesterday.
​

---

2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH

It all starts with the Apostles themselves.

While Rome likes to jack off about Peter, the Eastern Church was established by several Apostles:

Andrew

John

Paul

and others who established churches across Greece, Asia Minor, and the East.

These churches preserved their apostolic succession like it was precious metal.

The early centers were Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, and Constantinople (once it became a thing).
View attachment 3344683
These weren't just random cities but were intellectual powerhouses.

While Western Europe was getting its ass kicked by barbarians, the East was having sophisticated theological debates that would make modern philosophers cry.
​

---

3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS

Let's talk about the seven councils that shaped Christian orthodoxy:

- Nicaea (325):
Smacked down Arius who thought Jesus was just a super-cool created being

- Constantinople I (381):
Cleared up the whole Holy Spirit thing

- Ephesus (431):
Told Nestorius to shut the fuck up about separating Christ's natures

- Chalcedon (451):
Defined how Christ's divine and human natures work together

- Constantinople II (553):
More Christological cleanup

- Constantinople III (680-681):
Settled the Monothelite controversy

- Nicaea II (787):
Said icons are actually cool and good

View attachment 3344701​

---

4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
View attachment 3344765

The Eastern Orthodox developed their own shit:

- Heavy emphasis on theosis (becoming like GOD)
- Essence-Energies distinction (GOD's essence is unknowable but His energies are participable)
- Apophatic theology (defining GOD by what He isn't)
- No original guilt inheritance (just death and corruption)
- Synergy between GOD grace and human free will

View attachment 3344741
​

---

5. THE GREAT SCHISM

1054 CE. The big breakup.

Here are the main issues:

- Filioque controversy (whether the Holy Spirit proceeds from Father and Son or just Father)
- Papal supremacy (Rome getting too big for its britches)
- Azymes (unleavened bread controversy)
- Different theological methods and emphases

View attachment 3344778

But it wasn't just theological.
Cultural and political tensions between East and West played huge roles.
​

---

6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE

After Constantinople fell in 1453, Orthodox Christians lived under Ottoman rule for centuries.
But instead of dying out, they preserved their faith with incredible tenacity.
The Ottomans had a "millet" system that gave Orthodox some autonomy.

SOURCE:

View attachment 3344795
​

---

6. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY

Russia becomes the "Third Rome" after Constantinople's fall.
Russian Orthodoxy develops its own flavor while maintaining communion with other Orthodox churches.
It becomes a major force until the Bolshevik Revolution fucks everything up.

View attachment 3344809
​

---

7. MODERN ERA

- Orthodox churches maintain independence while keeping unity in faith
- Each autocephalous church handles its own affairs
- Pan-Orthodox councils address common issues
- Strong emphasis on maintaining unbroken tradition
- Growing presence in the West through converts
- Still dealing with issues like calendar differences and jurisdictional disputes
​

---

8. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES

- Divine Liturgy basically unchanged since John Chrysostom
- Standing for worship (pews are for pussies)
- Intense fasting practices (Catholics think giving up meat on Fridays is hard? Cute.)
- Icons everywhere as windows to heaven
- Jesus Prayer tradition ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner")
- Hesychasm (mystical prayer practice)
​

---

9. THEOLOGY

- Trinity understood through experience rather than philosophical speculation
- Salvation seen as therapeutic rather than juridical
- Strong pneumatological emphasis (Holy Spirit isn't a forgotten appendix)
- No purgatory, but prayers for dead are important
- Original sin viewed differently from Western understanding
- Mystery emphasized over systematic explanation
​

---

10. UNIQUE FEATURES

- Married priests (but celibate bishops)
- No "development of doctrine" like Catholics
- Decisions by consensus rather than papal decree
- Heavy use of holy oils, incense, and physical elements
- Focus on transfiguration of creation rather than just souls going to heaven
​

---

11. MODERN CHALLENGES

- Jurisdictional overlap in diaspora
- Relationship with other Christians
- Modernity and secularization
- Political pressures in traditional Orthodox countries
- Balance of tradition and contemporary life
​

---

12. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE

- Never had a reformation because they didn't need one
- Maintained apostolic tradition through Islamic rule
- Preserved ancient liturgical practices
- Survived communist persecution
- Doesn't water down teaching to be popular
- Still does 4-hour services standing up
- Fasting practices that would make most modern Christians cry
- Won't compromise doctrine for ecumenical brownie points
​

---

13. CONCLUSION

The Eastern Orthodox Church is basically Christianity's old school hardass grandfather who still does things the ancient way and doesn't give a fuck about modern sensibilities.
While other traditions are trying to be relevant and cool, Orthodoxy is giving you what the Apostles taught.
Take it or leave it.

It's not just the oldest continuous Christian tradition but the one that most faithfully preserves the practices and beliefs of the early church.
While Rome was innovating and Protestants were protesting those innovations, the East was just keeping on keeping on.

That's why converts often say "Orthodoxy is what you get when you follow Christian history backwards."
It's Christianity without the medieval Roman additions or Protestant subtractions.

That is Eastern Orthodoxy.
The church that's been doing its thing since the Apostles and doesn't plan on changing anytime soon.
​

---

- holy​

CHRISTOS ANESTIIIII

 

[johnypvpgod]

Your nihilistic way of thinking has brought you to that conclusion, which simply false.

How do you justify that the orthodox God and the orthodox ideology propagates the main thing that fuels human suffering, mainly childbirth and all that "based trad" family shit. This normie way of life is less concerned with natural truth than more so following orthodoxy as some normie cultural activity. it is absurd to my sane brain that someone who believes in eternal punishment of the soul can happily create a new one. this sort of half assed spirituality doesnt sit right with me, and neither is claiming moral superiority of a religion ridden with the same biological egoism as present in all other charters of humanity, e.g islam or catholicism are not any better

 

[PrinceLuenLeoncur]

THREAD MUSIC:

​

---

TABLE OF CONTENTS:
1. INTRODUCTION
2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH
3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS
4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
5. THE GREAT SCHISM
6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE
7. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY
8. MODERN ERA
9. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES
10. THEOLOGY
11. UNIQUE FEATURES
12. MODERN CHALLENGES
13. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE
14. CONLUSION
​

---

1. INTRODUCTION

In this thread, I will be diving into this magnificent fucking beast of a tradition
that makes Roman Catholicism look like it was invented yesterday.
​

---

2. ORIGINS AND EARLY CHURCH

It all starts with the Apostles themselves.

While Rome likes to jack off about Peter, the Eastern Church was established by several Apostles:

Andrew

John

Paul

and others who established churches across Greece, Asia Minor, and the East.

These churches preserved their apostolic succession like it was precious metal.

The early centers were Alexandria, Antioch, Jerusalem, and Constantinople (once it became a thing).
View attachment 3344683
These weren't just random cities but were intellectual powerhouses.

While Western Europe was getting its ass kicked by barbarians, the East was having sophisticated theological debates that would make modern philosophers cry.
​

---

3. THE GREAT ECUMENICAL COUNCILS

Let's talk about the seven councils that shaped Christian orthodoxy:

- Nicaea (325):
Smacked down Arius who thought Jesus was just a super-cool created being

- Constantinople I (381):
Cleared up the whole Holy Spirit thing

- Ephesus (431):
Told Nestorius to shut the fuck up about separating Christ's natures

- Chalcedon (451):
Defined how Christ's divine and human natures work together

- Constantinople II (553):
More Christological cleanup

- Constantinople III (680-681):
Settled the Monothelite controversy

- Nicaea II (787):
Said icons are actually cool and good

View attachment 3344701​

---

4. DEVELOPMENT OF DISTINCTIVES
View attachment 3344765

The Eastern Orthodox developed their own shit:

- Heavy emphasis on theosis (becoming like GOD)
- Essence-Energies distinction (GOD's essence is unknowable but His energies are participable)
- Apophatic theology (defining GOD by what He isn't)
- No original guilt inheritance (just death and corruption)
- Synergy between GOD grace and human free will

View attachment 3344741
​

---

5. THE GREAT SCHISM

1054 CE. The big breakup.

Here are the main issues:

- Filioque controversy (whether the Holy Spirit proceeds from Father and Son or just Father)
- Papal supremacy (Rome getting too big for its britches)
- Azymes (unleavened bread controversy)
- Different theological methods and emphases

View attachment 3344778

But it wasn't just theological.
Cultural and political tensions between East and West played huge roles.
​

---

6. UNDER ISLAMIC RULE

After Constantinople fell in 1453, Orthodox Christians lived under Ottoman rule for centuries.
But instead of dying out, they preserved their faith with incredible tenacity.
The Ottomans had a "millet" system that gave Orthodox some autonomy.

SOURCE:

View attachment 3344795
​

---

6. RUSSIAN ORTHODOXY

Russia becomes the "Third Rome" after Constantinople's fall.
Russian Orthodoxy develops its own flavor while maintaining communion with other Orthodox churches.
It becomes a major force until the Bolshevik Revolution fucks everything up.

View attachment 3344809
​

---

7. MODERN ERA

- Orthodox churches maintain independence while keeping unity in faith
- Each autocephalous church handles its own affairs
- Pan-Orthodox councils address common issues
- Strong emphasis on maintaining unbroken tradition
- Growing presence in the West through converts
- Still dealing with issues like calendar differences and jurisdictional disputes
​

---

8. DISTINCTIVE PRACTICES

- Divine Liturgy basically unchanged since John Chrysostom
- Standing for worship (pews are for pussies)
- Intense fasting practices (Catholics think giving up meat on Fridays is hard? Cute.)
- Icons everywhere as windows to heaven
- Jesus Prayer tradition ("Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner")
- Hesychasm (mystical prayer practice)
​

---

9. THEOLOGY

- Trinity understood through experience rather than philosophical speculation
- Salvation seen as therapeutic rather than juridical
- Strong pneumatological emphasis (Holy Spirit isn't a forgotten appendix)
- No purgatory, but prayers for dead are important
- Original sin viewed differently from Western understanding
- Mystery emphasized over systematic explanation
​

---

10. UNIQUE FEATURES

- Married priests (but celibate bishops)
- No "development of doctrine" like Catholics
- Decisions by consensus rather than papal decree
- Heavy use of holy oils, incense, and physical elements
- Focus on transfiguration of creation rather than just souls going to heaven
​

---

11. MODERN CHALLENGES

- Jurisdictional overlap in diaspora
- Relationship with other Christians
- Modernity and secularization
- Political pressures in traditional Orthodox countries
- Balance of tradition and contemporary life
​

---

12. WHY ORTHODOX IS HARDCORE

- Never had a reformation because they didn't need one
- Maintained apostolic tradition through Islamic rule
- Preserved ancient liturgical practices
- Survived communist persecution
- Doesn't water down teaching to be popular
- Still does 4-hour services standing up
- Fasting practices that would make most modern Christians cry
- Won't compromise doctrine for ecumenical brownie points
​

---

13. CONCLUSION

The Eastern Orthodox Church is basically Christianity's old school hardass grandfather who still does things the ancient way and doesn't give a fuck about modern sensibilities.
While other traditions are trying to be relevant and cool, Orthodoxy is giving you what the Apostles taught.
Take it or leave it.

It's not just the oldest continuous Christian tradition but the one that most faithfully preserves the practices and beliefs of the early church.
While Rome was innovating and Protestants were protesting those innovations, the East was just keeping on keeping on.

That's why converts often say "Orthodoxy is what you get when you follow Christian history backwards."
It's Christianity without the medieval Roman additions or Protestant subtractions.

That is Eastern Orthodoxy.
The church that's been doing its thing since the Apostles and doesn't plan on changing anytime soon.
​

---

- holy​

@Thebuffdon @PsychoH


Skip to 55 and listen from that point on.

This is what euros should be doing, getting ethnics to become cheeriness of letting them spread their filth into the west

 

[PsychoH]

@Thebuffdon @PsychoH


Skip to 55 and listen from that point on.

This is what euros should be doing, getting ethnics to become cheeriness of letting them spread their filth into the west

 

[PrinceLuenLeoncur]

Im an ex orthodox, its a gay af similar to redpill religion.
View attachment 3344839

You were never “orthodox” you were a worm who never understood the religion nor Jesus ‘I bet you know barely only of the beliefs I’m a convert and the knowledge you cradle orthodox have is hilarious

 

[PrinceLuenLeoncur]

View attachment 3344875

Here’s another one
This site always blocks Christian music

 

[yeeyeeslayer]

0

 

[johnypvpgod]

You were never “orthodox” you were a worm who never understood the religion nor Jesus ‘I bet you know barely only of the beliefs I’m a convert and the knowledge you cradle orthodox have is hilarious

Lmao thats not the answer i expected, keep stroking your ego prideful ass mf, real christians are in the mountains alone not on looksmax or hustling

 

[PsychoH]

View attachment 3344876
Here’s another one
This site always blocks Christian music

Master.

 

[Kudagaisme]

I'm not a nihilist, far from it, but I just personally don't see how God cares about humanity as a whole.

If God didn't care then why did he sacrifice himself on the cross to save people from their sins? That doesn't seem like something an uncaring God will do.

 

[PrinceLuenLeoncur]

Master.

Here’s another one

Lmao thats not the answer i expected, keep stroking your ego prideful ass mf, real christians are in the mountains alone not on looksmax or hustling
View attachment 3344878

“Real Christians” sorry who gave you the right to dictate who and what a “real Christian” is?

You lost that right when you left and you were always a dead member you have no authority to state who is and isn’t a real “Christian” keep your bloody mouth shut you cradle hedonist

 

[PrinceLuenLeoncur]

If God didn't care then why did he sacrifice himself on the cross to save people from their sins? That doesn't seem like something an uncaring God will do.

I'm not a nihilist, far from it, but I just personally don't see how God cares about humanity as a whole.

Based on baseless assertions from 0 factual sources and evidence. Just make up your own god cannon theory bro

 

[HeavyMetalcel]

If God didn't care then why did he sacrifice himself on the cross to save people from their sins? That doesn't seem like something an uncaring God will do.

That's exactly my issue with this, why are you guys always looking at God trough a Christian/Abrahamic perspective? I mean I get it, it's the most prominent religion in the west, you have been taught about it since you were little, but still. How do we know that Jesus is actually God? So many religions came and passed... I want to be clear, I'm not debating the existence of God, I'm just asking why Christianity specifically?

t. ex-christian

 

[HeavyMetalcel]

That's exactly my issue with this, why are you guys always looking at God trough a Christian/Abrahamic perspective? I mean I get it, it's the most prominent religion in the west, you have been taught about it since you were little, but still. How do we know that Jesus is actually God? So many religions came and passed... I want to be clear, I'm not debating the existence of God, I'm just asking why Christianity specifically?

t. ex-christian

My point is, God in real life doesn't seem mercyful and kind like you describe Him to be.

 

[holy]

My point is, God in real life doesn't seem mercyful and kind like you describe Him to be.

I'll be simple:

Are you an atheist?

 

[raduuh]

dnr but rep for formating

 

[johnypvpgod]

Here’s another one
View attachment 3344879

“Real Christians” sorry who gave you the right to dictate who and what a “real Christian” is?

You lost that right when you left and you were always a dead member you have no authority to state who is and isn’t a real “Christian” keep your bloody mouth shut you cradle hedonist

wherever u may be i pray you and your siblings and your nephews and nieces get brutally murdered and raped by a serial killer like ramirez

 

[HeavyMetalcel]

I'll be simple:

Are you an atheist?

No, I would say my view on God is that I can't really prove or disprove His existence. I guess that would be "agnostic" but I personally do believe in some form of higher power even though I think He doesn't care about us.

 

[PrinceLuenLeoncur]

wherever u may be i pray you and your siblings and your nephews and nieces get brutally murdered and raped by a serial killer like ramirez

Pray? So I made you a thiest now

Thank God praises be to the lord hallelujah.

Now as a Christian I’ll bless you and hope you remain as one

 

[johnypvpgod]

No, I would say my view on God is that I can't really prove or disprove His existence. I guess that would be "agnostic" but I personally do believe in some form of higher power even though I think He doesn't care about us.

Also that would be Deism.

 

[holy]

How do you justify that the orthodox God and the orthodox ideology propagates the main thing that fuels human suffering, mainly childbirth and all that "based trad" family shit. This normie way of life is less concerned with natural truth than more so following orthodoxy as some normie cultural activity. it is absurd to my sane brain that someone who believes in eternal punishment of the soul can happily create a new one. this sort of half assed spirituality doesnt sit right with me, and neither is claiming moral superiority of a religion ridden with the same biological egoism as present in all other charters of humanity, e.g islam or catholicism are not any better

First off, let me just address the claim that childbirth and family fuel human suffering.

This shit reeks of someone projecting their own existential discontent onto a fundamental part of human existence.

Sure, life comes with suffering. We all know that. But to blame childbirth and the concept of family as "fuels" for it is such a shallow take it barely deserves attention.

The orthodox view on family and procreation is rooted in the idea of participating in god's creative act. Life isn’t some nihilistic cesspool we’re cursed to endure but a gift, and yes, it comes with suffering. But that suffering has meaning.

Christianity, especially orthodoxy, doesn't deny suffering. Christ literally embraced it to its fullest extent on the cross.

So, this notion that orthodoxy somehow fuels suffering is just ignorance.

Suffering exists because of human brokenness (sin), not because people have kids.

Blaming family and childbirth for human suffering is the intellectual equivalent of blaming water for drowning.

Did you actually think about this shit before stating it?

---

Then, there’s this nonsense about orthodoxy being a “normie cultural activity” or less concerned with “natural truth.”

I can’t... really take this one seriously.

Orthodoxy is one of the most intellectually rigorous and deeply spiritual traditions out there.

The orthodox church spends centuries debating and defining theology, drawing on the teachings of the early church fathers, scripture, and tradition. It's about living in harmony with the divine truth revealed through christ.

What the fuck does “natural truth” even mean in this context?

Truth isn’t some vague, subjective concept we just get to redefine because we don’t like what a religion says. Orthodoxy aligns itself with ultimate truth: God’s truth. That’s why it resonates with people across centuries, cultures, and circumstances.

---

Now, the whole eternal punishment and having kids thing.

What a weak straw man.

Orthodox theology doesn’t teach that god is sitting around, gleefully tossing people into hell for the fuck of it.

Hell is the natural consequence of rejecting God.

And having kids isn’t “creating new souls to be punished for eternity.” What a lazy, reductionist way to think about it.

Children are a continuation of god’s creative work, and they’re born with the same free will we all have. They’re not doomed to anything unless they choose it.

Orthodoxy places responsibility on parents to guide their children in faith and love, showing them the way to communion with God. It’s not about throwing them into some eternal cosmic lottery but nurturing them in truth and giving them the tools to choose the good.

---

Then there’s this pathetic shit:

islam or catholicism are not any better

All because of “biological egoism.”

First of all, stop lumping all religions together as if they’re interchangeable.

Orthodoxy has its own theology, practices, and history that distinguish it from islam and Catholicism.

Second, what the fuck does “biological egoism” even mean in this context? Are you seriously suggesting that the entire theological framework of orthodoxy is just some evolutionary byproduct of human selfishness? That’s lazy armchair atheism at its worst.

Orthodoxy explicitly teaches the opposite of egoism. It calls believers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Christ. It’s about self-sacrifice, love, and communion with God. Not self-centered survival tactics.

If you think all religions are just human constructs designed to pander to biological instincts, you’re showing your own ignorance, not making some deep philosophical critique.

Your whole spiel reeks of someone who hasn’t seriously engaged with Orthodoxy (or probably any religion, for that matter) on an intellectual level.

You can’t just walk into a theological discussion armed with a handful of edgy, pseudo-philosophical soundbites and expect to be taken seriously.

Orthodoxy is about more than “normie cultural activity” or “trad family values.” It’s a path to union with God. It’s about finding meaning in suffering, purpose in life, and hope in eternity. And it does all of this with a philosophical and theological depth that’s unmatched by the kind of shallow spirituality you're trying to peddle.

If you want to seriously critique orthodoxy, you need to step up your game.

Until then, your arguments are just noise.

 

[Underdog9494]

High iq post, gonna read later

 

[ss07]

Pretty interesting thread. What are the orthodox views on hell?

 

[holy]

What are the orthodox views on hell?

1. Hell is not a “place” like a fiery dungeon.

It's a state of being rather than a physical location.

Think of it like this: God’s love is eternal, unchanging, and infinite. It’s like the sun, constantly shining. How you experience that love depends entirely on you.

If you’ve aligned yourself with God’s will, that love feels like warmth, light, and joy. But if you’ve rejected god, turned inward, and hardened your heart, that same love feels like a burning fire. Hell isn’t the absence of God but the presence of God experienced by those who refuse to embrace him.


2. It’s a matter of free will.

Orthodoxy is big on the idea that God doesn’t force himself on anyone.
You have to freely choose to be in communion with him. Hell isn’t God tossing people into a pit but people choosing to separate themselves from him.

If you hate God, being in his eternal presence would feel unbearable.

it’s like forcing someone who hates music to listen to a concert for eternity. it’s torture, not because the music is bad, but because they don’t want to hear it.

3. The fire of hell is the same as the light of heaven.

This is huge in orthodox thought.

The “fire” of hell isn’t some external punishment God creates to scare you into obedience. It’s God’s uncreated energy—His presence.

To those who love Him, that fire purifies and illumines. To those who reject Him, it burns and torments.

St. Isaac The Syrian put it best:
“Those who are tormented in hell are tormented by the invasion of love."​

4. Hell isn’t about revenge or retribution
One of the biggest differences between orthodoxy and some western views (like certain strands of catholicism or protestantism) is that we don’t see hell as God getting even with sinners.

Orthodoxy rejects this idea of a wrathful God who’s out to punish people for breaking the rules.

God doesn’t “send” people to hell. People choose it by rejecting his love. God’s judgment is less about punishment and more about revealing the truth of who we are.


5. There’s no despair in God’s love.

This is just another key point: Orthodoxy emphasizes that God’s love is always reaching out to us, even in hell.

There’s no such thing as a point where God says, “okay, i’m done with you.”

Hell is eternal because some people might eternally reject God’s love, not because God has abandoned them.


That's basically it. It's tied to God’s love and human free will.