ATHANASIUS

Athanasius: translation

(c. 296–373 AD)

   Egyptian Christian patriarch. He was born in Alexandria, where he was educated and became the secretary of Patriarch Alexander, whom he succeeded in 326. Prior to his accession, he took part in the Council of Nicaea in 325, where the orthodox creed was laid down, and thereafter he became a staunch opponent of the doctrine of Arius. Athanasius was exiled from 334–337 and deposed from 340–345 and 356-61 and briefly exiled in 363 and 365 by various emperors for his views. He set the example for opposition by the patriarchs of Alexandria to imperial policy when it conflicted with their religious beliefs. He died in May 373. His surviving writings include an influential life of St. Anthony.

   See also Benjamin; Coptic Church; Cyril; Cyrus; Dioscorus; Theophilus.

Athanasius: translation

Athanasius m

Latin: the name of an early Christian saint (c.297–373), an Alexandrian theologian venerated particularly in the Eastern Church. His name is derived from the Greek vocabulary word athanatos immortal, and was popular among early Christians, since it expressed their confidence in eternal life.

Pet form: Russian: Afonya.

Athanasius: übersetzung

griechischer Ursprung, Bedeutung: der Unsterbliche. Namensträger: Hl. Athanasius, Kirchenvater und -lehrer.