Biblical Answer

The concept of "theosis" in Eastern Orthodox theology plays a significant role in understanding the nature of human beings. Theosis, or deification, refers to the process of becoming like God through a personal relationship with Him. In Orthodox theology, theosis is not about humans becoming God or sharing in His unique ontological nature, but rather about humans being transformed and renewed through their relationship with God. This transformation is made possible through the incarnation of God in Jesus Christ and the re-creation of humanity through Him. Theosis is not a static state, but a dynamic process that involves the ongoing transformation of human beings into the image of Christ.

Theosis is rooted in the Orthodox understanding of the nature of God and humanity. According to Orthodox theology, God is a Trinity of Father, Son, and Spirit, and humanity is created in the image of God. However, through sin, humanity became separated from God and lost its original likeness to Him. Theosis is the process of restoration and renewal of this likeness through a personal relationship with God. This relationship is made possible through the work of Jesus Christ, who is both fully God and fully human. Through Christ, humans can experience theosis and become like God, not in essence, but in character and nature.

The concept of theosis has significant implications for understanding human nature and the purpose of human existence. It emphasizes that humans are not just rational beings, but beings with a spiritual nature that longs for a personal relationship with God. Theosis also highlights the importance of the incarnation and the re-creation of humanity through Jesus Christ. It underscores the dynamic and ongoing nature of human transformation and renewal, and emphasizes the need for humans to participate in this process through a personal relationship with God. In this sense, theosis provides a rich and nuanced understanding of human nature and the purpose of human existence, one that is rooted in the Orthodox understanding of the nature of God and humanity.