What is Absolutely Manditory

[JJM]

I've noticed (though I may be wrong) that while there is often a consensus in Orthodox Theology there are also often small or sizable minorities which believe other things, and if I understand correctly the only Dogmas in Orthodoxy are contained in the Ecumenical Councils. So what must one absolutely believe to become Orthodox?

 

[ArmyMatt]

I think the best way to answer this is to go to an Orthodoxy Church, and experience the Liturgy itself, then talk to the priest.

but for the sake of the thread I would say that you should look at what came out of the Councils, especially the Creed. that is a good place to start, but not to finish.

 

[E.C.]

Christ, Councils, Creed... life.

With the Councils, it does not end with the Ecumenical Councils. There are also some later councils, such as in Jerusalem during the 16th century (Church's opinion on Calvinism and other things), that are also what one would call "binding".


I think St. Necktary of Optina said it best when he said, "Orthodoxy is life; one can not talk about it, one must live it"

Which is quite true. One could read all the books they wish and agree with the theology, but then find themselves too "culture shocked" when they visit an Orthodox church for Divine Liturgy.

 

[ArmyMatt]

yeah, trying to find out what the bare minimum to believe in as an Orthodox Christian would be like someone asking what's the bare minimum that you do to show your mom that you love her.

 

[Mikeb85]

I've noticed (though I may be wrong) that while there is often a consensus in Orthodox Theology there are also often small or sizable minorities which believe other things, and if I understand correctly the only Dogmas in Orthodoxy are contained in the Ecumenical Councils. So what must one absolutely believe to become Orthodox?

Absolutely mandatory would be the beliefs formulated in Ecumenical Councils, including those after the schism which, although not always called Ecumenical, practically speaking, really are...

One thing you'll find though is that in Orthodox Christianity our faith, while not always precisely defined, is quite organic in nature, which is why there's such a consensus - something you don't find even in churches that have much more rigidly defined beliefs...

 

[Gwendolyn]

Absolutely mandatory would be the beliefs formulated in Ecumenical Councils, including those after the schism which, although not always called Ecumenical, practically speaking, really are...

Interesting. Could you give me an example of a post-schism council that would be included in that statement? (Dates, what the council discussed/decided)

 

[Mikeb85]

Interesting. Could you give me an example of a post-schism council that would be included in that statement? (Dates, what the council discussed/decided)

The fifth Council of Constantinople (Ecumenical), which was a series of councils held from 1341-1351, defined hesychastic theology as Orthodox, and condemned rationalistic philosophy. Fifth Council of Constantinople - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

The Council of Jerusalem in 1583 (pan-Orthodox) condemned Purgatory, Papal Supremacy, and unleavened bread in the eucharist. Defined the procession of the Holy Spirit.

The Council of Jerusalem in 1672 (pan-Orthodox, teachings are recognized as ecumenical) condemned Calvinism, and the idea that man is totally depraved. Also re-affirmed the Orthodox Canon of scripture. Orthodox Church Listing of Synods and Councils

 

[Lukaris]

I think a good perspective can be found by understanding the day to day basics of living a Christian life in prayer, fasting, & alms giving (as instructed by our Lord in Matthew 6:1-18) balanced against His injunction that we are unworthy servants (see Luke 17:10, & Luke 17:1-10). Many non Orthodox Christians may have these exemplary qualities too but it is never explicitly or properly focused on outside of Orthodoxy (also saying that we are no less sinners too). Also if exploring Orthodoxy investigate fasting last & talk to a priest first about it.

 

[Ortho_Cat]

The "real presence" of Christ in the Holy Eucharist is one such essential belief.

 

[Joshua G.]

I think St. Necktary of Optina said it best when he said, "Orthodoxy is life; one can not talk about it, one must live it"

I think this is the best answer, nothing added or subtracted. This is it, period.