Monarchism and the “symbolic worldview” of P. A. Florensky

The article deals with the philosophical and theological foundations of the monarchical beliefs of P. A. Florensky. It is noted that the topics of politics and state structure were not included in the scope of Florensky’s research interests. At the same time, he had quite definite beliefs on these issues. These beliefs were based on his “symbolic understanding of the world”. Monarchical power in the state was considered by him as a necessary reflection on earth of the hierarchy that exists in “Heaven”. The author provides evidence of Florensky’s attitude to the idea of creating and operating the “Christian Brotherhood of Struggle”, as well as Florensky’s perception of the revolutionary events of 1917 and the overthrow of the monarchy in Russia. The work “The expected state structure in the future” is also used as a source. The main conclusion is that Florensky saw the future of Russia in the revival of the Russian Orthodox Church and in the return to the Russian people of the Divine gift of the autocratic monarchy.