Генезис концепции спасения в религиозно-философском наследии Кирилла Туровского: византийское влияние и оригинальность идей

Abstract

The article is devoted to the study of the development of the soteriological concept in the religious and philosophical work of Cyril of Turov. The continuity of the ideas of the Turov author with Byzantine patristic thought is analyzed, and the originality of the views of the Old Russian theologian is also revealed. Cyril of Turov, borrowing a number of Byzantine soteriological ideas, perceives them as already-solved problems that have clear answers and are not intended to continue theological reasoning. In his work, the Old Russian author solves the tasks set in accordance with the realities of his time and the surrounding reality. Thus, the main goal of the bishop of Turov after taking the dignity is to attract the Russian masses to the adoption of baptism and a new faith. Cyril of Turov sees the essence of the spiritual activity of Christian priests and monks in faithful service to ordinary people. In this regard, the idea of individual, personal salvation, presented in the early "monastic" creativity, is transformed into the concept of universal salvation, primarily associated with the dominant nature of God's grace granted to all mankind. The perfection of the incarnation of the Son of God for Cyril of Turov is equal to the perfection of the deification of all mankind. Reverend Cyril does not express to his flock strict requirements regarding morals and moral existence, realizing the weakness of human nature. His soteriological concept is based on the optimistic idea of divine forgiveness and love; therefore, the main principles of Christian virtue leading people to salvation, in accordance with the views of the ancient Russian theologian, are baptism and repentance as opportunities for renewal and the beginning of a new earthly life. Baptism, according to Cyril, regenerates people; repentance gives them the possibility of eternal existence by transforming evil into good.