Eastern Orthodoxy, also known as the Eastern Orthodox Church, is one of the three main branches of Christianity, alongside Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. It emphasizes continuity with the ancient Christian church, the authority of sacred tradition, and a mystical approach to faith and worship. With approximately 220 million adherents, it is particularly prominent in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa.

Key Beliefs of Eastern Orthodoxy

1. Holy Tradition: The Orthodox Church places equal importance on Scripture and Sacred Tradition, including the writings of the Church Fathers, ecumenical councils, liturgies, and practices.
2. The Trinity: Belief in one God in three persons: Father, Son, and Holy Spirit, as defined in the Nicene Creed.
3. Theosis: The process of spiritual transformation in which believers become more like God, participating in His divine nature (2 Peter 1:4).
4. Salvation: Seen as a lifelong process of union with God through faith, sacraments, prayer, and good works, rather than a single moment of justification.
5. Seven Sacraments:
   • Baptism, Chrismation (Confirmation), Eucharist, Confession, Marriage, Holy Orders, and Anointing of the Sick.
   • The Eucharist is the centerpiece of Orthodox worship, understood as the real presence of Christ.
6. Veneration of Icons: Icons (sacred images) are used as windows to the divine, aiding in prayer and worship. They are venerated but not worshiped, as worship is due only to God.
7. Authority: Authority lies in the collective decisions of the Church, expressed through ecumenical councils and the consensus of bishops and theologians, rather than a single central figure like the Pope.
8. Eschatology: Eastern Orthodoxy teaches the resurrection of the dead and eternal life, with an emphasis on the mystery of salvation and God’s ultimate judgment.

Distinctive Practices

1. Divine Liturgy:
   • The central worship service, rich in symbolism, chant, and ritual, reflecting heavenly worship.
   • The Liturgy of St. John Chrysostom is the most common.
2. Fasting and Feasts:
   • Fasting plays a significant role, especially during Lent, Advent, and other periods, as a means of spiritual discipline.
   • Feasts like Pascha (Easter) and the Feast of the Nativity (Christmas) are major celebrations.
3. Prayer Life:
   • The Jesus Prayer is a central devotional practice.
   • Monasticism is highly esteemed as a model of spiritual dedication.

Historical Development

1. Apostolic Foundations: The Orthodox Church traces its origins to the apostles, claiming unbroken continuity with the early Christian church.
2. Ecumenical Councils: The first seven ecumenical councils (325–787 AD) are foundational for Orthodox doctrine.
3. The Great Schism (1054 AD): The Orthodox Church split from the Roman Catholic Church due to theological, political, and cultural differences, including disputes over papal authority and the Filioque clause in the Nicene Creed.
4. Byzantine Influence: Orthodox theology and worship were shaped by the Byzantine Empire, particularly its liturgical traditions and emphasis on icons.

Written by AI. A more correct, God given, explanation can be found here.