ortodoksisissa

Ortodoksisissa, or "Orthodox Christianity," refers to the traditions, beliefs, and practices of Eastern Orthodox Christianity, one of the largest branches of Christianity alongside Roman Catholicism and Protestantism. The term derives from the Greek words *orthos* (meaning "right" or "correct") and *doxa* (meaning "opinion" or "glory"), collectively signifying "right belief" or "right worship." This branch of Christianity emerged from the early Christian Church and is centered on the teachings of the Nicene Creed, emphasizing the Holy Trinity, the divinity of Christ, and the authority of the first seven ecumenical councils.

Orthodox Christianity is primarily practiced in Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Africa, with significant communities in North America, Australia, and other regions. The Orthodox Church is governed by autocephalous (self-governing) churches, each led by a patriarch, metropolitan, or archbishop, with the Ecumenical Patriarch of Constantinople traditionally holding a primus inter pares ("first among equals") position. The division between Eastern Orthodox and Western (Roman Catholic) Christianity became formalized during the Great Schism of 1054, though theological differences had developed earlier.

Liturgically, Orthodox Christianity is known for its rich liturgical traditions, including the Divine Liturgy, which varies slightly between churches but retains core elements like the use of icons, chanted hymns, and the Eucharist as the central sacrament. The Orthodox Church also preserves ancient liturgical texts, such as those of St. John Chrysostom and St. Basil the Great, and maintains a strong emphasis on asceticism, monasticism, and the veneration of saints.

Theologically, Orthodox Christianity upholds the concept of *theosis*—the belief that humans can achieve union with God through divine grace, mirroring Christ’s own humanity and divinity. This doctrine, along with a reverence for tradition (*traditio*), distinguishes it from other Christian denominations. While historically separate from Catholicism and Protestantism, ecumenical dialogue has led to increased cooperation in recent decades.