What was the primary cause of the Great Schism in 1054?

What was the primary cause of the Great Schism in 1054?

• A. Theological disputes between the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches
• B. Political divisions in the Holy Roman Empire
• C. Economic rivalry between Venice and Genoa
• D. Cultural differences in art and architecture

Answer: (A)

The primary cause of the Great Schism in 1054 was indeed theological disputes between the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches. These disputes revolved around significant differences in beliefs and practices, most notably the Filioque controversy, which involved the procession of the Holy Spirit and led to deep theological divisions. Additionally, there were disagreements over church authority, with the Roman Catholic Church asserting papal supremacy, which was rejected by the Eastern Orthodox Church that emphasized ecumenical councils and collective leadership among bishops. While political divisions, economic rivalries, and cultural differences did play roles in the overall context of the period, they were not the central reasons behind the schism. The theological disputes were foundational in creating the split, as they directly challenged each church's understanding of Christianity and ecclesiastical hierarchy, leading to mutual excommunication and the formal division of the two branches of Christianity.

The primary cause of the Great Schism in 1054 was indeed theological disputes between the Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches. These disputes revolved around significant differences in beliefs and practices, most notably the Filioque controversy, which involved the procession of the Holy Spirit and led to deep theological divisions. Additionally, there were disagreements over church authority, with the Roman Catholic Church asserting papal supremacy, which was rejected by the Eastern Orthodox Church that emphasized ecumenical councils and collective leadership among bishops.

While political divisions, economic rivalries, and cultural differences did play roles in the overall context of the period, they were not the central reasons behind the schism. The theological disputes were foundational in creating the split, as they directly challenged each church's understanding of Christianity and ecclesiastical hierarchy, leading to mutual excommunication and the formal division of the two branches of Christianity.