Introduction

Dynamis of Healing: Patristic Theology and the Psyche explores possible experiential traces of Orthodox Christian ontology and soteriology in the healing of the psyche, as known and experienced through depth psychology, by examining a possible relationship between theology and depth psychology as mediated through a lens of the sacramentality of creation. Chapter 1 maps the territory for inclusion of the psyche, as understood in depth psychological terms, in discussions of salvation and healing. Chapter 2 explores a central premise of patristic soteriology, giving an outline of the thought of several key church fathers and exploring the Eastern Orthodox emphasis on theosis as a model of transformation. Chapter 3 discusses a possible ontology of healing by looking at St. Maximus’s concept of the logoi of being and clinical insights into the psyche as always seeking to manifest healing qua psyche. Chapter 4 concludes the book by considering the importance of eros and desire from both a theological perspective and a depth psychological perspective.

Conclusion

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An Ontology of Healing?

This chapter explores a possible ontology of healing by looking at St. Maximus’s concept of the logoi of being and clinical insights into the psyche as always seeking to manifest healing qua psyche. The drive for wholeness, the prevalence of sin and distortion, and the importance of the will are all considered.

Eros: Healing Fire

This chapter considers the importance of eros and desire from both a theological perspective and a depth psychological perspective. Using St. Maximus’s concept of the tropoi of being, eros is considered as a dynamic driver of the psyche.

Psyche and Creation: Initial Reflections on Orthodox Theology and Depth Psychology

This chapter maps the territory for inclusion of the psyche, as understood in depth psychological terms, in discussions of salvation and healing. It utilizes a case study to illustrate the possible depths of transformation a person can undergo. It also notes and briefly addresses areas of difference between Orthodox Christianity and depth psychology.

“That Which Is Not Assumed Is Not Healed”

This chapter explores a central premise of patristic soteriology. It gives a brief outline of the thought of several key church fathers. Finally, it explores the Eastern Orthodox emphasis on theosis as a model of transformation.