Biblical Answer

The concept of 'theosis' in Eastern Orthodox theology is rooted in the idea that humanity was created in the image of God, but through sin, this image was distorted. Orthodox theology emphasizes the importance of the incarnation of God and the re-creation of man. According to this view, when man sins, he does not violate the divinely established legal relationship between God and humanity, but rather, he experiences a separation from God's eternal presence, which for those who reject God, is experienced as torment.

Theosis is understood as a process of becoming like God, not in the sense of sharing in God's unique ontological nature, but rather, in the sense of participating in God's divine life. This process is not a state of being, but rather, a relationship to God's eternal presence. Orthodox theologians argue that this concept is not equivalent to the pagan idea of deification, where humans share in the divine nature. Rather, it is a unique aspect of Orthodox theology that emphasizes the importance of the incarnation and the re-creation of humanity.

The concept of theosis has significant implications for our understanding of human nature. It suggests that humanity was created to participate in God's divine life, and that through sin, this participation is distorted. Theosis emphasizes the importance of the incarnation and the re-creation of humanity, which is a central theme in Orthodox theology. This concept also highlights the importance of a personal relationship with God, where humans experience God's eternal presence and participate in God's divine life. Ultimately, theosis is a call to humanity to return to its original created state, where it participates in God's divine life, and experiences God's presence in all aspects of life. This concept has significant implications for our understanding of human nature, and it is a central theme in Orthodox theology.