Page 309 - Orthodoxy Zizioulas

O R T H O D O X Y: PA S T A N D F U T U R E
modern man overcome the impasses created by modern cul-
ture? Orthodoxy can truly prove to be the hope of the modern
world if it correctly interprets its tradition, because this tradi-
tion contains elements that respond to these problems. Thus,
Orthodoxy proves to be valuable not only for the past but also
for today and tomorrow.
But to understand the problems of modern man, knowl-
edge of the historical origins of the culture that dominates
today is needed. Nothing in history happens without develop-
ments that prepare for its advent. The modern world also has
its roots within history. These must be sought in order to un-
derstand both the problems of our time and the position that
Orthodoxy must take in response.
Orthodoxy represents a way of thinking and an attitude
toward existence rather than merely an institution. As such, it
carries a message of meaningful relevance for the challenges
facing humanity.
One fundamental element is the emphasis on communion
as prevailing over the individual. The Eastern approach to
God has always been Trinitarian: God’s being is not under-
stood in terms of substance alone, but through the person of
the Father, that is, a being defined by relationality. This heri-
tage, preserved by Orthodoxy, points to the existential impli-
cation that true being exists only in and through an event of
communion. Communion is thus an ultimate reality—so fun-
damental that nothing can exist without it.
This principle must be emphasized in an era dominated by
individualism and collectivism. Humanity should be ap-
proached as persons—identities formed through commu-
nion—rather than as isolated individuals or parts of a whole.
It is this relational dimension that makes humans the image
of God. On an ecclesial level, this is crucial at a time when
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