Theophilos

Theophilos (Greek: Θεόφιλος) is a masculine given name meaning "friend of God." It has been borne by several historical figures, including rulers, church leaders, and writers.

Theophilos, Byzantine emperor (reigned 829–842), was a member of the Amorian dynasty who pursued Iconoclasm and maintained tensions with the iconodule clergy. His death in 842 precipitated a change in policy, with his widow, Empress Theodora, restoring the veneration of icons.

Theophilus of Alexandria, Patriarch of Alexandria from about 385 to 412, was a leading opponent of Origenism. He supported the suppression of perceived heretical writings and helped shape the city’s theological policy during his tenure.

Theophilus of Antioch, an early Christian apologist and bishop of Antioch, wrote works defending Christianity to the Greek world, including the Apology to Autolycus, and engaged in polemics with Greek philosophy.

Theophilus Presbyter, often simply called Theophilus, was a medieval writer of the early 12th century, traditionally regarded as the author of De diversis artibus, a major Latin treatise on the techniques of painting, glass, and metalwork. The author’s exact identity remains uncertain.

The name Theophilos thus appears across different periods and contexts in the Greek-speaking world, associated with both ecclesiastical leadership and contributions to art and theology.