About interrelation between anthropology and soteriology in theology of St. Theophan the Recluse

This article examines the interrelationship between anthropology and soteriology in the ascetic theology of Saint Theophan the Recluse (1815–1894), a prominent hierarch of the Russian Orthodox Church and the greatest anthropologist of his time. The main idea of the bishop, which he sought to convey to his flock and spiritual children, is shown, which is that man is ontologically separated from God due to the deep sinful corruption of his nature and needs reunification with the Creator through Christ through life «in spirit and by Spirit». It is noted that the primary component of human nature, through which true and complete reunification with God is possible and necessary, is the human spirit. In Saint Theophan’s writings, the spirit is presented as a living, active force of communion with God and knowledge of God. Two planes of the spiritual path are examined: natural and personal, which represent two interconnected aspects of this human journey as a hypostatic- natural unity in one’s ascent to God and the steps he goes through on this path.