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Gregory IIPatriarch of Constantinople (1283-1289).
Country:
 Turkey |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Return to Constantinople and Teaching
- Patriarchate of Constantinople
- Writings and Legacy
Early Life and Education
Born as George, Gregory II came from a noble family. As a teenager, he traveled to Nicosia for education. Dissatisfied with the teachings of Greek tutors, he joined a Latin school. However, his progress in Latin was hindered by its difficulty, leading him to develop only a superficial understanding of Aristotle's grammar and logic.
Gregory then embarked on a journey to Ptolemida, Enia, and Ephesus, seeking mentorship from renowned scholars. However, he was disappointed by Nicephorus Blemmydes and eventually settled in Nicaea, where he studied under George Acropolites.
Return to Constantinople and Teaching
With the capture of Constantinople by the Nicaean Empire in 1261, Gregory returned to the capital and embarked on a teaching career. Among his pupils was Nicephorus Chumnus.
Patriarchate of Constantinople
In 1283, Gregory II ascended to the patriarchal throne of Constantinople. In response to the 1274 Union of Lyons, which proposed the controversial doctrine of the Holy Spirit's procession from both the Father and the Son, Gregory wrote an influential treatise arguing that the Holy Spirit proceeds eternally from the Son. This formula, known as the "Gregory's Doctrine," became the Orthodox response to the Western "filioque" doctrine. Gregory's understanding of the Trinity was formally endorsed at a church council in Blachernae in 1285.
Writings and Legacy
Beyond theology, Gregory was known for his collection of proverbs and penned an autobiography. He passed away in 1289, leaving behind a legacy as a prominent figure in Byzantine religious and intellectual life.
