M. I. Lot-Borodine as a researcher of Byzantine thought

The article discusses the work of Myrrha Ivanovna Lot-Borodine, the first Orthodox woman theologian of the Russian diaspora who explored Byzantine thought. It is noted that the works of M. I. Lot-Borodine fit into the tradition of neopatristic synthesis, i.e., the revival of patristics in the twentieth century. In her works, two main themes can be distinguished. Firstly, this is the issue of deification. A series of three articles, “The Doctrine of Deification in the Greek Church until the 11th Century”, was written specifically for the History of Religions journal in 1931-1932, and posthumously published as a separate book. In it, Lot-Borodine analyzed the tradition of apophatic theology, as well as the key concepts of the image and likeness of God. She sought to uncover the true essence of deification and all mystical experience in the tradition of the Greek Fathers. In this regard, the researcher examined the meaning of Christian suffering and asceticism, the bodily aspect of deification, the sacraments, especially the Eucharist. In addition, Lot-Borodine published a number of articles on St. Nicholas Kabasilas, also posthumously published as a separate book. According to Lot-Borodine, the main theme of St. Nicholas Kabasilas is Divine Love, and his concept can be described as “Christian humanism” The works of M. I. Lot-Borodine are deep and significant works in the field of Byzantine studies.