The paradox between appearance and truth in Ephrem the Syrian’s Hymn de Crucifixione IV

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Authors

Botha, Philippus Jacobus

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Department of Ancient Languages, University of Pretoria

Abstract

The presence and literary function of certain polarities in this particular hymn are investigated. It concerns polarities formed by the contrast between what was visible during the trial and crucifixion of Christ and what was believed by the Christian community who created and used these hymns to be the truth. It is found that Ephrem expressed the polarities in the form of ironic paradoxes. These paradoxes were supposed to strengthen the unity of the Christian community by focusing on the increase in honour of Christ during what seemed to be a process of shaming him.

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Keywords

Ephrem the Syrian, De Crucifixione IV, Paradox

Sustainable Development Goals

Citation

Botha, PJ 2002, 'The paradox between appearance and truth in Ephrem the Syrian’s Hymn de Crucifixione IV', Acta Patristica et Byzantina, vol. 13, pp. 34-49. [http://journals.sabinet.co.za/ej/ejour_patris.html]