Parting of the Waters: Divergences in Early Theologies of Baptismal Anointing Practices

The practice of baptismal anointing was diverse both in practice and interpretation in the first four centuries. Early Christians at times interpreted the practice of baptismal anointing in the context of Old Testament anointings, as well as the baptism of Jesus in the Jordan. Liturgical development of baptism can be seen as early as the second and third centuries with relation to anointing practices. The fourth century shows further liturgical development affected by the Christological and Pneumatological debates, as well as the growth of Christianity both doctrinally and ecclesially. As a result of the heresy debates of the fourth century, many early Christians sought to unify the practice and doctrinal theology concerning the baptismal practices. An understanding of the ritual development can aid in modern theological discussions concerning the baptismal liturgy.

Name thesis:degree_name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Level thesis:degree_level

masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Theological Studies

Grantor dc:publisher

University of Dayton

Year dc:date

2013

Author dc:creator

• Farnsworth, Elizabeth H.

Contributors dc:contributor

• Bunta, Silviu

• Religious History
• Theology
• Religion
• Baptismal anointing
• anointing
• baptism
• Early Church.

Statement dc:rights

• unrestricted
• This thesis or dissertation is protected by copyright: all rights reserved. It may not be copied or redistributed beyond the terms of applicable copyright laws.

Language dc:language

English

Repository record dc:identifier

http://rave.ohiolink.edu/etdc/view?acc_num=dayton1364906223

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:etd.ohiolink.edu:dayton1364906223