Arius
Early Life and Education
Arius was born in AD 256 in the city of Alexandria, in present-day Egypt. His parents, Ammonius and Beronice, were of Libyan origin. Little is known about his early life, but it is believed that he received a good education, showing a strong inclination towards philosophical and theological studies.
Theological Views
Arius is best known for his theological views, which came to be known as Arianism. He argued that if the Father begat the Son, the latter must have had a beginning, that there was a time when he was not, and that his substance was from nothing like the rest of creation. This was in direct opposition to the prevailing view of the time, which held that the Son was co-eternal with the Father.
Controversy and Exile
Arius' views were controversial and led to his exile from Alexandria in 321. He found refuge in Palestine, where he continued to propagate his teachings. His views were condemned at the First Council of Nicaica in 325, which asserted that the Son was of the same substance as the Father, a doctrine known as Homoousion.
Later Life and Death
Despite the condemnation, Arius continued to have a significant following. He was allowed to return to Alexandria in 335, but died suddenly the following year. The circumstances of his death have been the subject of much speculation and controversy.
Legacy
Arius' teachings had a profound impact on the development of Christian theology. The controversy surrounding his views led to the formulation of the Nicene Creed, which is still used in many Christian churches today. His influence can also be seen in the various Arian sects that emerged in the centuries following his death.