There’s a complex balance within the sphere of Orthodox Christianity regarding how adherents are called to respond to evil. While the teachings of Christ center upon love, forgiveness, and non-retaliation, there exists a long-standing tradition of justifying resistance to evil by force in specific situations. This essay seeks to unravel this theological justification within Orthodox Christianity, highlighting the importance of defending one’s neighbor, the Church, and standing up for beliefs, even to the point of war.
A fundamental aspect of understanding the Orthodox Christian perspective on force is grasping the concept of malice, or evil intent. St. John Cassian, an influential Church Father, emphasized that anger in itself is not sinful, but it’s the spirit of hatred or revenge that constitutes sin. Therefore, force exerted without malice, in defense of righteousness or protection of the innocent, can find its place within Christian morality.
The Orthodox Church has a long tradition of monastic warriors, the embodiment of holy resistance against evil. The concept of the “holy warrior” is embedded in the history of Christianity, as seen in the emergence of military orders, such as the Knights Templar. St. Bernard of Clairvaux’s treatise “In Praise of the New Knighthood” provides an early theological justification for these military-monastic orders. Bernard argued that these knights, driven by their Christian duty, wield the sword not in vengeance but in defense of the Church and innocent lives.
Similarly, in the realm of just war theory, the use of force is considered morally justifiable under specific conditions, including a rightful intention, as a last resort, and when there’s a reasonable chance of success. In Orthodox Christianity, just war theory aligns with Christ’s teachings on justice, love for one’s neighbor, and the responsibility to protect those who can’t protect themselves.
Notably, in his essay “On Resistance to Evil by Force,” Russian Christian philosopher Ivan Alexandrovich Ilyin asserts that Christian love does not equate to inaction in the face of evil. Christians are called to uphold justice, and there may be circumstances where the use of force is a necessity, not for revenge but for the protection of oneself and others. Thus, Orthodox Christians are not called to be pacifists but active defenders of righteousness and protectors of their neighbors.
At times, it may seem like a contradiction – a religion based on love and forgiveness, sanctioning the use of force. However, it is the intent, the circumstances, and the ultimate goal of justice and protection that distinguishes the righteous use of force from acts of aggression or revenge. In Orthodoxy, the dispassionate taking up of the sword is a burden borne out of necessity, and not a departure from Christian values, but a solemn duty to uphold them.
In conclusion, Orthodox Christianity provides theological justification for the resistance to evil by force, firmly grounded in the commitment to protect one’s neighbor, the Church, and the sanctity of their beliefs. The loving heart of Orthodoxy does not negate the responsibility to act against evil, but rather it is the very foundation upon which this responsibility rests.
References:
- Merton, T. (1991). “The Wisdom of the Desert: Sayings from the Desert Fathers of the Fourth Century.” Shambhala.
- Bernard of Clairvaux. (1950). “In Praise of the New Knighthood.” Cistercian Publications.
- Regan, R. J. (1996). “Just War: Principles and Cases.” Catholic University of America Press.
- Ilyin, I. A. (1957). “On Resistance to Evil by Force.” Liberty Fund.