Biblical Answer

The concept of apokatastasis in Origen's theology can be understood as a form of universal salvation. Origen believed that the process of salvation is the reversal of the fall, ending with all rational beings again contemplating God. This understanding of salvation is central to his theology, and he saw it as a restoration of the original state of humanity before the fall. Origen's doctrine of the Trinity is also closely tied to this concept of apokatastasis, as he believed that the Son's eternal generation is a key part of the process of salvation.

Origen's view of apokatastasis is closely related to his Platonist philosophical background, and it is often seen as a form of Gnosticism. However, it is also possible to see Origen's theology as a form of universal salvation, where all rational beings are ultimately saved and restored to their original state. This understanding of salvation is not necessarily incompatible with the New Testament eschatology, as Origen believed that the process of salvation is a gradual one that takes place over time, rather than a single event at the end of time.

The seven variants from Origen's position on the issue of the way by which salvation might be made available to the entire human race can be seen as attempts to modify or refine Origen's understanding of apokatastasis. While these variants may differ from Origen's position in certain respects, they all share a common commitment to the idea of universal salvation. Origen's emphasis on the importance of becoming like God and contemplating him is also closely tied to this concept of apokatastasis, and it is a key part of his understanding of salvation. Ultimately, Origen's theology of apokatastasis can be seen as a form of universal salvation, where all rational beings are ultimately saved and restored to their original state.