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Orthodox Christianity is a branch of Christianity that adheres to the faith and practices of the early Christian church, as defined by the first seven ecumenical councils.
The main beliefs of Orthodox Christians include the Trinity (Father, Son, and Holy Spirit), the divinity of Jesus, the authority of the Bible and tradition, the importance of sacraments, and the belief in the resurrection of the dead.
The Orthodox Christians also have a strong emphasis on monasticism and devotion to saints and icons. Orthodox Christians also have a strong sense of the unity and continuity of the Church throughout history.
Some of the main beliefs of Orthodox Christians include the following:
- The Trinity: Orthodox Christians believe in one God in three persons: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. They believe that the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are equal in essence but distinct in their roles and functions.
- The divinity of Jesus: Orthodox Christians believe that Jesus is the incarnate Son of God, fully God and fully human. They believe that Jesus was born of a virgin, lived a sinless life, and died on the cross for the sins of humanity. They also believe in his resurrection from the dead and his ascension into heaven.
- The authority of the Bible and tradition: Orthodox Christians believe in the authority of the Bible and the teachings and traditions of the Church. They believe that the Bible is the inspired word of God and that the Church is the guardian and interpreter of its teachings.
- The importance of sacraments: Orthodox Christians believe in seven sacraments, which are seen as visible expressions of God’s grace. These sacraments include baptism, chrismation, eucharist, penance, anointing the sick, holy orders, and marriage.
- The belief in the resurrection of the dead: Orthodox Christians believe in the physical resurrection of the dead and that at the end of time, the dead will rise again and be judged by God.
- Monasticism and devotion to saints and icons: Orthodox Christianity strongly emphasizes monasticism, which is the practice of living a solitary life devoted to prayer and contemplation. They also have a strong devotion to saints, who are seen as examples of holiness and intercessors with God, and icons, which are seen as a means of connecting with the divine.
- Unity and continuity of the Church: Orthodox Christianity also emphasizes the unity and continuity of the Church throughout history. They consider themselves to be the true and original Church, dating back to the time of the apostles and passing down the faith through the generations.
