Theology 2 Flashcards
1
Q
What is the name by which the Homilies of Mar Afrahath are known?
A
Demonstrations.
2
Q
How many Demonstrations of Mar Afrahath are available to date?
A
Twenty-three.
3
Q
What is the theme of Aphrahat’s Demonstrations?
A
Christian treatise on Prayer.
4
Q
According to Mar Afrahath, what is the for prayer to be acceptable to Alaha?
A
Purity of heart.
5
Q
How does Mar Isahaq of Niniveh describe the Body of Isho M’shiha?
A
Temple/ Tabernacle of the Divinity.
6
Q
How does Mar Isahaq of Niniveh describe the Human nature that Isho M’shiha took?
A
The Sanctuary.
7
Q
Who describes Humanity of M’shiha as the “garment of divinity”?
A
Mar Isahaq of Niniveh.
8
Q
Who says: “For our salvation He put on (a) man and dwelt in him”?
A
Mar Theodore of Mopsuestia.
9
Q
Who uses the phrase: “Robe of Humanity”?
A
Cyrus of Edessa.
10
Q
Who uses the phrase: “Robe of the Body”?
A
Mar Narsai.
11
Q
Who teaches “All that applies to (the Man) is raised up to (the Word) who accepts it for himself, having willed to make Him share in this honour. So, we have acquired an accurate knowledge of the Creator” ?
A
Mar Isahaq of Niniveh.
12
Q
To describe the level of intimacy of creation with Alaha, achieved in the sacrifice of M’shiha, what term does Mar Isahaq of Niniveh use?
A
Mingling.
13
Q
Who is known as the father of the East Syriac spiritual tradition?
A
Mar Yohannan Ihidaya (St. John the Solitary).
14
Q
According to Mar Theodore of Mopsuestia, what is salvation?
A
Salvation is a slow educational process designed by Alaha even before creation and undisturbed by the events that followed the original fall.
14
Q
Whose prayer is this “You fashioned me in Your will from the beginning, so that I may behold Your eternal glory. For it is You who, even before we came into being, wished in your love that creation should come into being so as to become aware of You”?
A
Mar Isahaq of Niniveh.
15
Q
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, what is the “the first book” given by Alaha to the rational beings?
A
The Visible World.
16
Q
Enlist the 5 powers of a human soul according to Mar Isahaq of Niiveh.
A
Natural desire, irascible power,vitality ,simple rationality,composed rationality.
16
Q
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, how many powers does a human soul have?
A
Five
17
Q
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, which among the 5 powers of the human soul end their existence in the moment of death?
A
Natural desire and irascible power.
18
Q
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, which is the only power of the human soul that remains active during the separation between the body and the soul?
A
Vitality.
19
Q
Why does human soul require simple rationality in heavenly life according to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh?
A
For knowing Alaha through contemplation.
20
Q
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, which of the five powers of human soul are necessary For heavenly life?
A
Simple rationality and natural desire.
21
Q
Why does the human soul require natural desire in heavenly life according to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh,?
A
For loving Alaha.
22
Q
According to Mar Thimothy I Casolikka, which are the two powers exclusively of human soul?
A
Rationality and Will.
23
Which are the two powers exclusively of the soul by the union with the body according to Mar Thimothy I Casolikka?
Concupiscence, irascibility, and vitality.
24
According to Mar Thimothy I Casolikka Which powers of human soul are active while the body is alive?
Rationality and will.
25
According to Mar Thimothy I Casolikka Which powers of human soul are active while the body is alive,become inactive at death, but appear again after resurrection?
Rationality and will.
26
Which power of human soul according to Mar Thimothy I Casolikka is active always?
Vitality.
27
In the Syriac tradition, the image of Alaha in human is often compared with which symbol?
The symbolism of a metal mirror.
28
How can humans "feel" or "know" Alaha?
It is due to the human’s divine image; located in the noetic (intellectual) part of the soul.
29
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, what are the five gifts given to the human soul?
Life, sense perception, reason, freewill and authority.
30
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, what is the target of the powers and gifts given to the human soul?
To become aware of and enjoy the delight of intelligence and the pleasure of the vast gifts of insights.
31
How does Mar Isahaq of Niniveh define deification?
It is becoming “Alahas by the means of grace”.
32
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, what is death?
Death is part of the original destiny of human and the fruit of the love of Alaha, who knew from the beginning that human would fall. Death is not the direct repercussion of sin.
33
What does Mar Isahaq of Niniveh teach about the weakness of humans?
Weakness is used for the benefit and growth of humans: the knowledge of Alaha's patience, power and especially His love.
34
What does Mar Isahaq of Niniveh teach about the expulsion from Pradaisa?
Expulsion from Pradaisa is not the repercussion of sin, but the gift of Divine mercy,as Alaha would not confine the dominion which He gave to human only to Eden, but He wanted to put them as rulers over all creation.
34
Who taught that "Death is not simply a retribution for sin, but becomes the passage to a wonderful and glorious life, part of the destiny of Alaha’s merciful attitude towards humanity; by the Incarnation, death is not something frightening, but a short passage to the second catastasis."?
Mar Isahaq of Niniveh.
35
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh what is the inaugural event of eschatological knowledge?
The Incarnation of M'shiha.
36
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, why did M'shiha Incarnate?
The only reason for the incarnation is Alaha’s will to be made known to people in a supreme act of love.
36
According to Mar Isahaq of Niniveh, why did M'shiha suffer and die on Sliva?
The main reason for that is to reveal His love, which is "more abundant than the sea".
37
Does there exist any Christological disputes between catholic theology and the east syriac theology?
No.
38
Which was the declaration that put an end to the controversies between catholic theology and the east syriac theology?
Common Christological declaration of Pope John Paul II and his holiness Mar Dinkha IV, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East.
39
When was common Christological declaration of Pope John Paul II and his holiness Mar Dinkha IV, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East Declared?
Friday, 11 November 1994.
40
What was the final aim of the common Christological declaration?
To proclaim together before the world the common faith in the mystery of the incarnation.
40
Who were the primates who siged common Christological declaration of Pope John Paul II and his holiness Mar Dinkha IV, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East?
Pope John Paul II and Mar Dinkha IV Catholicose.
41
Where was common Christological declaration of Pope John Paul II and his holiness Mar Dinkha IV, Catholicos-Patriarch of the Assyrian Church of the East declared?
At Saint Peter’s Basilica, Rome.
42
Why are all men not capable of receiving “divine revelation” from the almighty Alaha and father?
Owing to sinful impurity of both body and soul they are not capable of receiving the “divine revelation” from Alaha.
42
How can we define the words “divine revelation”?
“Divine revelation” is that which Alaha himself has revealed to man; in order for man to rightly and salvificly serve him; and for man to worthily give to him due honour and praise.
42
Who are the agents who have received and delivered the “divine revelation”?
Adam, Noah, Abraham, melchizedek, Moses and other Nivyas; these received the beginnings of the divine revelation and proclaimed the same to humankind; but, it was the incarnate son of Alaha our lord and Savior Isho M'shiha, the second person of the holy trinity, who brought the divine revelation to earth in it's fullness and perfection.
43
From where did the doctrine of the Apostolic faith come?
It is from divine revelation.
44
Is it possible for man to have any knowledge of Alaha, without it being revealed to him?
Some knowledge of Alaha can be gained by the consideration or contemplation upon the creation (such as the trees, flowers, the cosmos, etc); however, this knowledge is imperfect and not sufficient to reveal the totality of Alaha. It will only serve as a preparation for faith; or, as a help toward Alaha and his revelation.
45
How do we preserve divine revelation and spread it among humankind in the true Church?
By utilizing two methods: the holy apostolic and living tradition; and the holy scriptures.
46
What do we mean by “holy apostolic and living tradition?”
We mean that the holy, apostolic, and the living tradition is the dogma of the Christian faith, the law of Alaha, the holy raze, and the rituals as handed to us by the true believers and worshipers of almighty Alaha, orally and by example from generation to another.
47
What is the Aramaic term for revelation/ manifestation?
Denha.
48
Which is the more ancient practice, observing the use of the sacred scriptures or of the holy, apostolic, and the living tradition?
`The most ancient and original means, or mode, for proclaiming the divine revelation is the holy apostolic and living tradition! From Adam, the father of humankind to the Moses nivya there were no written sacred books. Maran Isho M'shiha, himself, delivered his divine dogma and practice unto the disciples by word of mouth and primary example; not by the written page. This same method or mode was followed, also, by the holy Shlihe in their days of Apostolic ministry; proclaiming the Christian faith, and establishing the holy
Church of Maran Isho M'shiha.
49
What is the true repository for the holy, apostolic and the living tradition?
All true believers united by the holy tradition of the faith, collectively and successively, by the will of God, compose one holy church; and, this holy church is the true repository of the holy and living apostolic tradition.
50
If you say that holy tradition is so important, then why is the holy scripture given to the Church?
The holy scripture is given to the Church, so that the divine revelation may be kept and preserved as it had been given, without change.
51
Why do we abide within the structure of the holy apostolic and living tradition, even though we have easy access to the holy scriptures?
We are to abide in the sacred tradition, as it is in line with the divine revelation and the holy scriptures (all else is to be cast aside as heresy). Poulose Shliha records for us: “. . . Therefore, brethren, stand fast, and hold the traditions which you have been taught, whether by our word, or epistle. . .” (II Thessalonians 2:15).
52
What do we mean by the Old Testament and the New Testament?
We mean to state that there was an earlier covenant of Alaha with man; and the new covenant of Alaha with mankind.
53
What constitutes the formation of the Old Testament?
The Old Testament is the revelation of the forth-coming of Jesus Christ, and preparing them (humankind) to accept him.
54
How was humankind prepared to receive Maran Isho M'shiha?
Alaha had prepared humankind to receive Maran Isho M'shiha, through the gradual revelation in the preachments of the Nivye and types.
54
What constitutes the New Testament?
The absolute fulfillment of the Old Testament Nivyoosa (prophecies) in the giving of the Gift of Alaha: His Only Begotten Son Maran Isho M'shiha.
55
Name the Books of the Law.
They are the five books written by Mushe; Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy.
56
Which are the doctrinal books of the Old Testament?
They are the Books of Iyyob (Job), the Mazmore (Psalms), and the Book of Shlemon (Solomon).
57
What does the Church use as her symbol or instrument to convey the doctrine of faith?
The Creed of the 318 Fathers, the Nicene Creed was accepted in the whole Church by 325 A.D.
58
When did the East Syriac Church accept the Creed of Nicene officially?
In 410 A.D.
59
Who introduced the Nicene Creed to East Syriac Church?
Mar Marutha.
60
Who officially accepted Nicene Creed in East Syriac Church?
Mar Isaac in 410 A.D.
61
What is the Creed?
The Creed is an exposition of the Faith handed to us by the Apostles in brief. It is the doctrine that all Christians are to believe, divided into 12 articles of profession.
62
How many professions of faith do we profess in the creed?
12.
63
What does the first profession of the creed speak about?
It speaks of Alaha, that HE is the prime origin and in particular the First Qnoma of the Holy Trinity: Alaha the Father, and that HE is the Creator of the Worlds, Visible and Invisible;
64
What does the second profession of the creed speak about?
It addresses the Second Qnoma of the Holy Trinity, Isho M'shiha the Son of Alaha the Father.
65
What does the third profession of the creed speak about?
It addresses the Incarnation of God the Word, the Second Qnoma of the Holy Trinity.
66
What does the Fourth profession of the creed speak about?
It addresses the Hassha (passion), the death and the burial of Isho M'shiha.
67
What does the Fifth profession of the creed speak about?
It addresses the Glorious Resurrection of Isho M'shiha.
68
What does the Sixth profession of the creed speak about?
It presents the Sulaka (Ascension) of Maran Isho M'shiha into Heaven, Who now sits at the Right Hand of the Father.
68
What does the Seventh profession of the creed speak about?
The Second Coming of Isho M'shiha from Heaven.
69
What does the Eighth profession of the creed speak about?
The Third Qnuma of the Holy Trinity; Ruha d'Qudsha.
70
What does the Nineth profession of the creed speak about?
The One, Holy, Universal, Apostolic Church of Isho M'shiha.
71
What does the Tenth profession of the creed speak about?
The Holy Mammodisa, together with the implication of the other Raze.
72
What does the Eleventh profession of the creed speak about?
The Resurrection of the dead.
73
Why do we profess the creed as 'WE' and not 'I'?
Because the church as a whole is professing the faith, and not an individual.
73
What does the Twelfth profession of the creed speak about?
Life everlasting.
74
Why do we confess belief in One Alaha?
The heathen have taken the created creature for god and gods, and therefore, they think that there are many gods.
75
Why is it necessary for us to confess this faith?
It is essential for us to give witness to our confession of faith for our salvation, it is written: “. . . for with the heart man believes unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation . . .” (Rom 10:10).
76
Why is it not only important to salvation to believe, but, also to confess “the One, Holy, Apostolic, and Orthodox Faith?”
To preserve our life and temporal possession and to fail to give witness to this Holy, Apostolic, Orthodox Faith, means that we have failed to recognize a true faith in God, the Savior, nor do we desire to enjoy the blessings of Eternal Life. (“. . . whosoever shall deny
Me before men, him shall I also deny before My Father who is in Heaven . . .” Karozusa d'Matthai 10:33)
77
How does the Holy Bible teach us about the unity of the One Alaha?
The very words of this Holy Apostolic Orthodox creed is taken from the writings of the Paulose Shliha “. . . but there is no other Alaha but One. For though there be those who are Week 20 (April 28_2024)
called gods, whether in Heaven or Earth, but to us there is but One Alaha, The Father, of whom are all things, and we in Him; and One Lord Isho M'shiha, by whom are all things, and we by Him. . .” (I Cor 8: 4b, 5, 6).
78
Can we know the very essence of Alaha?
No! It is above all human knowledge and that of the Angelic hosts.
79
How does the Holy Scripture address this point of our knowledge concerning the “essence of Alaha”?
Paulose Shliha records: “ . . . in His time, He shall show, Who is the blessed and Only Potentate, The King of kings, The Lord of lords, Who alone hath immortality, dwelling in The Light which no man can approach unto; Whom no man have seen, nor can see: to Whom be
honor, and power everlasting: Amen . . .” (I Tim 6:15-16)
80
What can we derive from Divine Revelation as it defines essence and the essential attributes of Alaha?
That Alaha is spirit, eternal, all-good, omniscient, all-just, almighty, omnipresent, unchangeable, all-sufficing to Himself, all-blessed, etc.
81
What is the Qnoma of First person of Holy Trinity?
Alaha the Father begets (is not begotten), neither proceeds from any other Qnoma.
82
What is the Qnoma of Second person of Holy Trinity?
Alaha the Son, He is eternally begotten of Alaha the Father, He does not proceed from any other Qnoma.
83
What is the Qnoma of Third person of the Holy Trinity?
Alaha the Ruha d'Qudsha He eternally proceeds from Alaha The Father, and He is not begotten by any other Qnoma.
84
Are the Three Qnome equal?
Yes. They are equal in majesty, authority, power, love and will. The Father is truly Alaha, the Son is truly Alaha, the Ruha d'Qudsha is truly Alaha; One Alaha eternally revealed in Three Qnome.
85
Why we call Alaha the Almighty One?
We call Alaha the Almighty Alaha, because all that He has created is sustained and upheld by Him, His Power and His Will.
86
When we recite these words from the 318 Fathers, “maker of all things visible and invisible,” what do we confess?
Our confession states that all which was made is by Alaha! And, that nothing exists which was not created nor made by Him, whether visible or invisible.
87
Why do we call Ruha d'Qudsha and not Holy Spirit?
Ruha d'Qudsha means Ruha of Sanctification, Who sanctifies everything. Sanctification is the work of Ruha d'Qudsha and it is not a description.
88
What do we mean by the word (from the Creed) “invisible”?
The word “invisible” means, simply, the spiritual world, or that which is inhabited by the Malakas, Resh Malakas (Arch-Angels), etc. Or, that world which is not comprehended by the physical mind.
89
What are Malakas?
They are incorporeal beings which have no physical being, but that do have intelligence, will, and power.
90
Which was first created? The invisible? Or, the visible?
According to the Sacred Scripture and the Church Fathers, the invisible was first created. And that the Malakas were first created before humankind.
91
Where does the idea of “Guardian Malaka” come from?
It comes from the Mazmora of Daveed, where we see: “ For HE shall give HIS Malaka charge over thee to keep thee in all thy ways..” (Mazmora 91:11)
92
How is it that humankind is in the Image of Alaha?
Poulose Shliha explains to The Church, that humankind expresses the Image of Alaha in righteousness a holiness of truth, “ That ye put on the new man, which after Alaha is created, in righteousness and true holiness.” (Eph 4:24)
93
What is the breath of life?
The soul, a substance both spiritual and immortal.
94
Was man placed into a spiritual or a material Pardaisa (Garden)?
A two fold answer, for the body it was material, a visible and a blissful abode, but for the human soul it was a spiritual garden with state of communion and fellowship, by grace, with Alaha. A place for spiritual contemplation of the created beings (humankind).
95
Why did God make Hawwa from the rib of Adam?
So that all of humankind, might be by origin naturally disposed to love and defend one another. Adam is created and formed by Alaha, and from the rib of Adam his life’s companion Hawwa, was created. The joining of the two is seen in the replications in Holy Marriage. Alaha joins together, once again, his creation to his created.
95
Does Alaha’s predestination of man toward happiness remain unchanged or changed?
It remains unchanged, as Alaha, of His knowledge and infinite mercies, has predestined to open for all of humankind, even after his departure from the way of happiness, a new way to happiness through His only begotten Son Isho M'shiha.
96
How does the Holy Church define “predestination”?
It is the will of Alaha by which humankind is designed for Eternal happiness or bliss.
97
How do we understand the predestination of Alaha with respect to humankind in general and severally to each individual ?
Alaha has predestined to give to all mankind and has actually given to humankind preparatory grace and means sufficient for the attainment of happiness.
97
With respect to the world, and more particularly to that of mankind, what follows immediately upon their creation?
It is Divine Providence, as the Church declares which follows immediately upon their creation.
98
What is the definition of “Divine Providence?”
The Church defines the Divine Providence, as that constant energy of the Power of the Almighty, the wis dom and the goodness of our worshipful Alaha, by which He will keep and preserve the being and faculties of His created beings; directing to a good end, assisting all that is good; but as to evil, which will spring up from the departure of good, He will either cut it off or correct it; and, turns it into good results.
99
What does the Name Isho mean?
The Name means Savior. “She will bear a son, and you are to name him Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’’ (Mathai 1:21)
99
Who had given the Name Isho for the first time?
The Name Isho was given for the first time through Gawriel Malaka.
100
Why was this Name given to the Son of Alaha at His conception and birth?
He was so named, because He was conceived and born to save humanity from their sin through the ultimate death upon the Sleeva.
101
What is the meaning of the word “M'shiha”?
Anointed One.
102
We confess in The Creed that “Isho M'shiha was begotten before all worlds” Why?
We need assurance that there was never a time when Isho M'shiha did not exist; we teach that Isho M'shiha is the Son of Alaha from everlasting to everlasting Just as Alaha the Father is from everlasting to everlasting.
102
What does the Holy Scripture say about The Divinity of Maran Isho M'shiha as the Son of Alaha?
“In the beginning was The Word, and The Word was with Alaha; and The Word was Alaha”.
103
Why is Isho M'shiha called “the Only Begotten Son of Alaha?”
He is the only begotten Son of Alaha because of His Divine Nature; others like Malakas, and saints of the past, and believers of the present, are called “sons of Alaha” by Grace in adoption.
104
In the Creed it says that “He is begotten of the Father,” Why?
Through this expression He is distinguished from the Knoma of Alaha the Father and from the Knoma of Alaha the Ruha d'Kudsha ; for in truth, He who is Begotten is The Son; and He who begets is the Father, and the Ruha d'Kudsha is neither begotten, nor begets, He
proceeds.
104
In the Creed we confess “Very Alaha of Very Alaha, of one Essence with His Father,” Why?,
Isho M'shiha is of the same divinity as The Father, He is not lesser, nor greater, He is the same in authority, will, majesty, and worship’’. I and My Father are One ”. Alaha
105
Why do we confess in the Creed that “Isho M'shiha is begotten of His Father before all worlds and not made?”
Arius taught that The Son of Alaha was made and that there was a time when He was not (existing), and for this purpose this phrase was placed into the Creed to declare the truth of the Orthodox Faith, that Isho M'shiha in His Divinity is not made but that He is the Creator
(in fact), in contradistinction to the heresy of Arianism.
106
We confess, “By whose hands the worlds were established and everything was created” What is meant by this phrase?
It means that Alaha the Father created all things by His Son, His eternal wisdom and by His eternal Word.
107
We Confess in the Creed; “who for us men and for our salvation came down from
Heaven”? About Whom is it said?
We are confessing the Second Knoma of the Holy Trinity, Alaha The Melsa (Word), Bre' d'Alaha (Son of Alaha).
108
How did He come “down from Heaven” even though we declare that “Alaha is everywhere present?”
Before the Incarnation of Isho M'shiha, the Father was not visible upon Earth, in Isho we have the appearance of Alaha in flesh (the Father was revealed in Isho M'shiha).
108
What is the East Syriac word for Holy Trinity?
‘‘Thlisayusa’’
109
What do we mean by sin, how do we define the word sin?
According to the Holy Bible, sin is the transgression of the Law (of Alaha).
109
Which kind of death came about upon our foreparents, because of their sin; physical or spiritual?
Both, either physical or spiritual death visited humankind. Physical death, when the human soul separates from the body; and, spiritual death when the soul separates from Alaha.
110
Man was created in the Image of Alaha, but where does Man's desire to sin come from?
when man acted on his free will he sinned, because he was tempted by the evil one.
110
Why is it written that Isho M'shiha was of the “seed of the woman?”
He was born as a man, of the Holy Virgin Maryam,by the Power of the Ruha d'Qudsha, without benefit of an earthly father. So, Isho had an earthly mother; with a heavenly Father.
111
Do humankind have any hope for salvation?
Yes! When Adam and Eve had confessed their sin, Alaha the Almighty promised them a hope for salvation.
112
What was the benefit of “the Promise”?
That from the time of “The Promise” humankind was enabled to believe in the forth coming of the redemptive message of Isho M'shiha our Lord and Savior. As, now we who are believers know for certain that the promise has been fulfilled by the coming of Him who is M'shiha, while awaiting the coming the Second time from Heaven.
112
In the course of history, did Alaha remind people of His forgotten promise?
Yes! The recorded history of the salvation, clearly indicates to the readers of the Sacred Scriptures that Alaha reminded His creation of His promises.
112
In the times past, did people believe in the coming of the M'shiha?
Some did, but the greater number of humankind forgot that Alaha had made a promise to send a savior.
113
What is meant by the word “Incarnation?”
By the word Incarnation we mean that Alaha the Word the Second Knoma of the Holy Trinity took upon Himself human enfleshment (that is a human body), without sin, and was made man, without ceasing to be Alaha the M'shiha who is perfect man and perfect Alaha.
114
Why do we confess “. . . He became man. . .”?
We confess “He became man” because to give emphasis to the our Lord’s perfect humanity.
115
How many natures do we confess in M'shiha?
We confess that there are two natures in M'shiha; His humanity, and His Divinity.
115
Why do we confess, Isho M'shiha “. . . was crucified for us men. . .”?
In this statement we clearly declare that Maran Isho M'shiha through His death upon the Sleeva, delivered us from the curse of death, sin and Satan.
116
What was the purpose of the descent into Sheol by our Lord?
First, to proclaim His victory over death; and secondly, to deliver the righteous souls who had, in faith, anticipated His coming.
117
Why do we name or call the Third Person of the Holy Trinity “Lord God?”
We use this term in the same fashion as we refer to the entire Qnome of the Holy Godhead; “Lord God.”
118
In what form did Isho ascend into Heaven? In His humanity? or, in His Divinity?
In His humanity, In his Divinity was always in Heaven.
119
Why Ruha d'Qudsha is called “The Giver of Life”?
That He, together with Alaha the Father, and Alaha the Son gives life to all creatures which had been created from the beginning; especially in the matter of humankind in which the spiritual life is recognized as primary.
119
What is the tetragrammaton used in Hebrew to denote Alahah?
(יהוה) YHWH
120
What is the most common name of Alaha in the Hebrew Bible?
Yahweh.
121
Why the Jewish people never pronounce the name YHWH?
The Old Covevnant people were feared in uttering His Holy Name, and they considered it as very holy that they never used it.
121
Which are the other names that the Old Testament People use to call Alaha?
El, Elohim, Adonai, Ha Shem, etc...
122
What does Adonai mean?
Lord.
122
What does El/ Elohim mean?
Almighty.
123
What does Ha Shem mean?
The Name.
124
What does YHWH )יהוה( mean?
The four letters of the Tetragrammaton form the root meaning “to be”, and some have understood the original meaning to be “He-Who-Is,” or “He who brings being into being.”
124
(יהוה)? What is the source of YHWH
It is the Name which Alaha Himself revealed to Mushe Nivya.
125
Why is YHWH )יהוה( called as Tetragrammaton?
It contains four letters of Hebrew alphabets.
126
(יהוה)? What is the biblical source of YHWH
Exodus 3.14.
126
Is ܼ̈ܿ ܼܿ̈ܝܗ a Bigrammaton or Tetragrammaton?
It is a Bigrammaton.
126
How does Alaha revealed himself to Mushe Nivya at Mount Sinai?
Yehyeh Asher Yehyeh (I am Who I am).
126
How is ܼ̈ܿ ܼܿ̈ܝܗ pronounced?
YH or YAH.
126
What is the Syriac term for "Name"?
Shma
127
(יהוה)? What is the Syriac equivalent for YHWH .
ܝܗ
127
What are the east syriac alphabets used in ܝܗ ܼܿ̈
'YAH' is formed by combining two Syriac Alphabets 'ܝ' ( Read as 'Yodh') and 'ܗ' (Read as 'Heh').
127
What does Three dots present in YAH symbol symbolise?
The most Holy Trinity.
127
Why does East Syriac Church inscribes ܼ̈ܿ ܼܿ̈ܝܗ on starting page of the Holy Scripture, first pages of Holy Liturgical Texts?
According to the Scripture verse Hebrews 10:7: ‘‘Behold, I have come to do your will, "O God, as it is written of me in the scroll of the book’’.
128
Where in East Syriac Church does, we use YAH?
On starting page of the Holy Scripture, first pages of Holy Liturgical Texts and Sacred
places inside the Churches.
128
What is the theology explained through ܗ ܼܿ̈?
"Alaha our Creator, Isho our M'shiha and Son of God, and The Living Rooha d'kudsha are Equal in essence, without their Natures getting Intermixed.
128
What does One big dot present in YAH symbol symbolise?
One and only Alaha.
128
What does Three dots present in YAH symbol symbolise?
The most Holy Trinity.
128
What is the meaning of the word Marya?
Lord
129
Why are manuscripts inscribed with the YAH symbol at their begining?
Due to their sacred nature.
129
How many alphabets are present in Isho M'shiha when written in East Syriac?
9
129
Why is Alap ( the first letter of Aramaic Alphabet) is added in the beginning of Isho M'shiha?
By adding Alap, it makes 10 alphabets in the word Isho M'shiha.
129
Why is Alap is added to the Name Isho M'shiha thus making 10 alphabets?
10 is considered as a perfect/ complete number in Aramaic/ Judaic traditions.
129
Which other numbers are considered perfect/ complete in East Syriac tradition?
7, 15.
129
What is the numerical value of YAH?
15
130
Which traditions use YAH or its equivalents?
Only in the East Syriac tradition, can such a symbol be found.
130
In the West Syriac Tradition, why do they add "....and who was crucified for us" at the end of the Trisagion?
This is because they are addressing Isho M'shiha in the Trisagion.
131
In East Syriac Tradition, why don't we have "....and who was crucified for us" at the end in the Trisagion?
In East Syriac Tradition, Trisagion is sung addressing the Holy Trinity, not a single person of the Holy Trinity.
131
According to the ancient Book Marganisa, how does the East Syriac Church scribe the holy Name Isho M'shiha?
Written in Red ink and then written in Black ink through its inner lining.
132
According to the ancient Book Marganisa, How do West Syriac Church scribe the holy Name Isho M'shiha?
It is written in Red ink mixed with Black ink.
132
According to Mar Yokhanan Bar Pinkhaye, what is the meaning of scribing the Name Isho M'shiha in Red ink mixed with Black ink?
The confused state of existence of Divinity and Humanity in Isho M'shiha.
133
According to the ancient Book Marganisa, what is the meaning of scribing the Name Isho M'shiha in Red ink and with Black ink through its inner lining?
Humanity of Isho M'shiha is adhered with His Divinity without mixing or confusion or corruption.
134
What is the meaning of Theotokos?
Mother of Alaha.
135
What is the meaning of Christotokos?
Mother of M'shiha.
136
What is East Syriac equivalent for Theotokos?
Emme d'Alaha.
137
What is East Syriac equivalent for Christotokos?
Emme d'M'shiha.
138
According to the Marganisa, why Marth Mariam is not MOTHER OF ALAHA?
Because Marth Mariam brought forth the one only SON and not TRINITY.
139
What is Eschatology?
The branch of theology concerned with death, judgement, and the final destiny of the soul and of humankind.
140
What is Ecclesiology?
The study of doctrine pertaining to the Church itself as a community, and of how the Churchunderstands itself; that is, it's role in salvation, it's origin, it's discipline, its destiny, and it's leadership.
141
What is Patrology?
A branch of historical theology concerned with the teachings of the fathers of the Christian church.
142
What is Pneumatology?
Branch of theology which deals with Ruha d'Qudsha.
143
What is Apologetics?
Christian apologetics is a branch of Christian theology that defends Christianity.
144
What is Soteriology?
The doctrine of salvation.
145
What is Biblical Hermaneutics?
The study of the general principles of Biblical interpretation.
146
What is Dogmatic Theology?
Dogmatic theology, also called dogmatics, is the part of theology dealing with the theoretical truths of faith concerning Alaha and His works, especially the official theology recognized by the Church.
147
What is Ontological Christology?
It deals the nature or being of Isho M'shiha.
148
What is Functional Christology?
It analyzes the works of Isho M'shiha.
149
What is Soteriological Christology?
It analyzes the salvific standpoints of Christology.
150
What is Mystical Theology?
Mystical theology is the branch of theology that deals with divine encounter and the communication of Alaha with the faithful.
151
What is Exegetical Theology?
Exegetical theology is a study of Sacred Scripture.
152
What is Magisterium of the Church?
The official and authoritative teaching of the Church.
153
What is Theological Anthropology?
Theological anthropology is an attempt to think through the meaning of the human story as it is lived out before, with, and by Alaha
154
What is Hamartiology?
Theology of Man and Sin.
155
What are the 3 pillars of Theology?
Sacred Traditions, Sacred Scripture and Magisterium of the Holy Church.
156
How does a Church expresses its theology?
Through the Sacred Liturgy of the Church.
157
Who owns the first defence on the Doctrine of Holy Trinity?
Tertulian
158
What is Ecclessiology?
The systematic treatise on the church is called Ecclesiology.
159
Which are the three Branches of Christianity?
Aramaic (Syriac), Greek and Latin.
160
Who was the Roman Pope who called Eastern and Western Christianity as Two Lungs of Christianity?
Mar Papa Yohannan Poulose II (Pope John Paul II).
161
Who was the scholar who used the theory of Three Lungs of Christianity?
Malpan Dr. Sebastian Paul Brock.
162
According to Dr. Sebastian Paul Brock, which are the Three Lungs of Christianity?
Syriac Orient, Greek East and Latin West.
163
How was Eastern and Western Christiantiy defined?
The Eastern Churches centred mainly around the metropolis of Constantinople and the Western Churches around Rome (Rome means the Roman Empire and not today's Rome).
164
What is the Syriac Term for Church
Edha.
165
What is the Greek Term for Church?
Kyriakon.
166
What is the word meaning of Kyriakon?
Something that belongs to Alaha.
167
What is a building meant for worship of Jewish Congregation known in Syriac?
Knushtha.
168
What is the Buddhist term used for a Church or Liturgical Assembly?
Palli
169
What is Ecclessia?
Assembly of Alaha.
170
What is a Church?
It is a congregation gathered to worship Alaha.
171
Who was the one who classified the faithful into Clergy, Religious and Laypeople for the first time?
St. Gregory the Great.
172
How does the Church exercise it's powers and it's authority?
The Church exercises it's powers and it's authority in three ways: it teaches in the name of Alaha the truths which are revealed; it has the right to command and to prohibit, and it procures to it's children divine life and grace.
173
In an Apostolic Church, what is the authority in case of Faith?
In the matter of faith the common teaching of the ‘‘Fathers and Doctors’" of the Church will be the rule.
174
Why Oriental Orthodox Church is also known as Non-Chalcedonians?
They rejected the decisions made at the Council of Chalcedon which followed in 451, so they are some times called Old Oriental Churches or Non-Chalcedonians.
175
Which all are the Oriental Orthodox Churches?
The Oriental Orthodoxy consists of 6 Apostolic Churches; Coptic Orthodox Church,
Ethiopian OrthodoxChurch,
Syriac Orthodox Church,
Eritrean Orthodox Church,
Indian-Syrian Orthodox Church
Armenian Apostolic Church.
176
What is the major Christological difference between Oriental Orthodoxy and Eastern Orthodoxy?
Oriental Orthodox belief states that Isho M'shiha was fully divine, whereas Eastern Orthodox belief states that Isho M'shiha was both fully divine and fully human simultaneously. The Christology of
Eastern Orthodox Churches are same as Catholic Churches.
177
What are Eastern Catholic Churches?
The Eastern Catholic Churches or Oriental Catholic Churches, also called the Eastern-Rite Catholic Churches are Sui Iuris Chuches in full communion with Holy See of Rome.
178
What was the result of the Council of Ephesus ?
Nestorius was accused of heresy based on his argument that Marth Mariam is not Theotokos (Mother of God) but Christotokos (Mother of Christ) and anathematized.
179
Which Church broke away from the Catholic Church after the Council of Ephesus ?
The East Syriac Church. The East Syriac Church was accused of Nestorianism.
180
Which Syriac Church accepted the Council of Chalcedon ?
The Maronite Church
181
Which Syriac Church did not take part in the Great Schism of 1054 AD?
The Maronite Church
182
Which Apostolic Succession does the Bishop of Rome (Pope) hold?
Mar Shem'on Keppa (Simon Peter).
183
Which Apostolic Churches hold the Apostolic Succession of Mar Shem'on Keppa?
The Roman Catholic Church, Syriac Orthodox (Jacobite) Church of Antioch, Syriac Catholic Church of Antioch, Maronite Catholic Church and Melkite Greek Catholic Church.
184
How many Ecumenical Councils does East Syriac Church accept?
The Church of the East recognizes the first two Ecumenical Councils: the First Council of Nicaea (325), and the First Council of Constantinople (381).
185
What was the location of the first seven Ecumenical Councils?
All the seven Councils were convened in what is now the country of Turkey.
186
How many Ecumenical Councils does the Catholic Church recognize?
The Catholic Church recognizes all 21 Ecumenical Councils occurring over approximately 1900 years.
187
What are the first seven Ecumenical Councils?
The First Council of Nicea AD 325, First Council of Constantinople AD 381, Council of Ephesus AD 431, Council of Chalcedon AD 451, Second Council of Constantinople AD 553, Third Council of
Constantinople AD 681, Second Council of Nicea AD 787
188
Which Churches accept all seven Ecumenical Councils?
The Eastern Orthodox and Roman Catholic Churches accept all seven Councils as legitimate.
189
What is an Autonomous Church?
An autonomous Church has the right of self-governance.
190
What is an Autocephalus Church?
An Autocephalous Church has its governance within its own church and is not under any other Hierarchs in any matter.
191
What is a Sui Iuris Church?
A Sui Iurisis Church is an Autonomous (particular) Church in the Catholic Communion.
192
Which is the only Autocephalus Church inside the Catholic Communion?
Roman/ Latin Catholic Church.
193
Which churches are part of Eastern Orthodoxy?
Eastern Orthodoxy consists of several autocephalous (self-governing) churches, including the four ancient Patriarchates of the early church, (Constantinople, Alexandria, Antioch and Jerusalem) and several other churches.
194
What are Uniates?
Eastern Churches either reaffirmed their never-formally broken communion with Rome or left their Mother churches to join the Catholic communion.
195
Is there a common head in Eastern Orthodoxy or Oriental Orthodoxy similar to the Pope in the Catholic Communion?
No
196
What is the Biblical reference for Apostolic Thrones?
Mattai 19:28, Lukka 22:28-30.
197
When do Petrine Churches celebrate the feast of the "Throne of Keppa Shliha"?
February 22.
198
What is the Pentarchy in Christianity?
The Pentarchy refers to the collective term for the five Ancient Apostolic Patriarchates.
199
Which are the ancient Patriarchates of Christianity?
The ancient Patriarchates of Christianity include the Holy See of Rome, Holy See of Constantinople, Holy See of Alexandria, Holy See of Antioch, and Holy See of Orshlem (Jerusalem).
200
Who was the first to recognize the Pentarchy?
The Pentarchy was first recognized by the legislation of the emperor Justinian (reigned 527–565) and later confirmed by the Council in Trullo (692).
201
When was the Catholicate of Selucia-Ctesiphon established?
The Catholicate of Seleucia-Ctesiphon, also known as the Catholicate of Mar Isahaq, was established in AD 410 in Seleucia-Ctesiphon, the capital of the Persian Sassanid Empire, by King Yazdegerd I (399–421).
202
What does See or Throne signify in Christianity?
The See or Throne symbolizes the continuity of Apostolic Authority passed down by Maran Isho to His Shlihe.
203
What is the reference for Throne or Apostolic See in the Holy Scripture?
Mathai 19:28, Lukka 22:28-30
204
What was the ancient title of Ruler of the Indian Church?
Metropolitan and Gate of All India.
205
What does "Gate" symbolise in the title "Metropolitan and Gate of All India"?
Authority
206
Which is the oldest available document that mentions the Throne of Mar Thoma Shliha?
The oldest available document referencing the Throne of Mar Thoma Shliha is the Vatican Syriac Codex 22, a Syriac manuscript from India the oldest known Syriac Manuscript from India, dating back to 1301 AD.
207
How does Vatican Syriac Codex 22 acknowledge Mar Yakkov, the then Primate of the
Indian Church?
Mar Yakkov, as the Metropolitan, Superintendent and Governor of the Holy See of Mar Thoma Shliha, is our Governor and also of the whole Christian Church of Hendho.
208
Why is it not appropriate to call a Metropolitan, the "Head" of a Church?
According to East Syriac Theology, Isho M'shiha is the only Head of the Church.
209
What is the difference between a Metropolitan Archbishop and an Archbishop?
A Metropolitan Archbishop is the Archbishop of a province consisting of an Archeparchy and it's suffragan Eparchies, while an Archbishop is an honorary title that does not require being Archbishop of an Archeparchy.
210
What are the titles of a Roman Pope?
Bishop of Rome, Pope, Servant of the servants of God, Vicar of Christ, Primate of Italy, Sovereign of the Vatican City State, Bishop, Supreme Pontiff, Prince of the Apostles and Patriarch of the West.
211
Which are the East Syriac Churches?
Syro Malabar Church, Assyrian Church of the East, Chaldean Catholic Church, Ancient Church of the East.
212
Does the East Syriac Church ever claim the Succession of Mar Kepa Shliha at any time?
The Sunnahadose of AD 420 mentions Catholicos Mar Dadiso the “He for us is Keppa (Peter), the head of the Ecclesiastical Assembly”.
213
When did the Pope of Rome restore his title "Patriarch of the West"?
The title Patriarch of the west was restored in the 2024 edition of the Annuario Pontificio.
214
What type of church was the Nasrani Church of Malabar prior to the Portuguese era?
Metropolitan Church.
215
Which are the types of churches in the Catholic Communion?
Patriarchal Churches, Major Archi Episcopal Churches and Metropolitan Churches.
216
How many East Syriac Churches are there in Catholic Communion?
Two: Syro Malabar Church and Chaldean Catholic Church.
217
Which are the Liturgical Families in Christianity?
Traditionally there are six major liturgical families:
the Latin,
Alexandrian,
Antiochian/West Syriac,
Armenian,
Chaldean/ East Syriac,
Constantinopolitan/Byzantine.
218
What does the Greek word ‘Laicus’ mean?
A baptized Christian who has no authority in the ecclessiastical hierarchy.
219
What does the Greek word ‘Laos’ mean?
people
220
Why Pre-Nicene ecclesiology hailed as the ideal nature of the Church?
The wedge between Clergy and Faithful only widened after the Sunnahadose of Nicaea. Until then there were no quarrels for power.
221
"Flee to the Church, and be brought up in her bosom, and be nourished with the Lord's Scripture. For the Church has been planted as a Paradise in the world". Who teaches this?
Mar Iranimos (St. Iraneus)
222
Who says: "Holy Church is the Virgin Mother who feeds her children with Divine Word. She is the school in which her Spouse Isho M'shiha is the teacher"?
Mar Clement of Alexandria.
223
"Church is Coets (covenant) populi christiani, coetus omnium sanctorum, credentium plebs; also the mystical body of M'shiha." Who teaches this?
Origen.
224
"As the soul dwells in the body, thus the Logos lives in the Church as His Bishop. He is the principle of Her life. Church is the CITY of Alaha here on earth, existing for the time being side by side with the secular state." Who teaches this?
Origen
225
Who teaches: "Salus extra ecclesiam non est." (No salvation outside the Church)?
Mar Cyprian.
226
Who teaches: "It is impossible to have God as Father except we have Church as Mother."?
Mar Cyprian.
227
"Church has two aspects, a hierarchical and a spiritual. Church is a society composed exclusively of the just! Church is the new Eden. It is ship sailing towards the East and the heavenly paradise, guided by M'shiha, it's pilot. It is the ark of Noh - a society of saints who live in righteousness." Whose teaching is this?
Hippolytus of Rome (c.170-c.236)
228
Who taught: "You should understand that the bishop is in the Church and the Church in the bishop and that whoever is not with the bishop is not in the Church".?
Mar Cyprian.
229
Who taught: "As an instrument for his plan of universal salvation Alaha chose one people for his own; but all its privileges were destined to be extended to all nations, and all it's rites were types seeking fulfilment in the Church".?
Mar Aphrahat.
230
According to Mar Afrahath, what is the "authentic fulfilment of the 'former nation' and it's heroes are our fathers"?
The Holy Church.
231
"The type was in Egypt, the reality in the Church; the sealing of the reward (will be) in the Kingdom" Who teaches this?
Mar Aprem.
232
Whose words are the following: "My Farmer, plow my lands, and again, and a third time, Lord! Just as by a threefold action you have baptized and brought to life the soil of our souls, the church of our spirits!"?
Mar Aprem.
233
According to Liber Gradum, how many Churches are there?
3
234
Which are the three Churches according to Liber Gradum?
The Church visible, hidden and heavenly.
235
Which is the first Church according to Liber Gradum?
The Church that is visible and public.
236
Which is the second Church according to Liber Gradum?
The Church that is hidden in the heart.
237
Which is the third Church according to Liber Gradum?
The Church that is above or heavenly.
238
How can we describe third Church according to Liber Gradum?
The public level is image of the heavenly level, and faithfulness in the visible Church will win admittance to the heavenly Church.
239
According to Liber Gradum, who will be allowed entry to the third Church?
The 'just' who live in the visible Church are promised entry into the heavenly Church; the 'perfect' dwell already in paradise.
240
What is the relationship between Visible Church and Heavenly Church according to Liber Gradum?
"The visible Church on earth is the 'mystery', the sacrament of foreshadowing, of the Church triumphant in heaven; within the visible Church, each member is called to be 'a temple of the Spirit", and those who follow the way of self-consecration establish in themselves a 'hidden church' or 'church of the heart', which stands in a special, almost a guaranteed relationship with the Church in heaven.
241
Where can we find the culmination of Revelation of Alaha in Nature and the Scripture?
In the Incarnation.
242
What is the most radical commitment to Mamoodisa according to East Syriac Fathers?
Asceticism and Monasticism.
243
What is Diatessaron?
It is the most prominent Gospel harmony written in Syriac language. It is an arrangement of the textual mate rials found in the four Gospels into a single narrative. The word Diatessaron
means through the four Gospels.
244
Who is Tatian?
Tatian was a Syriac Christian and he is the author of Diatesseron, a harmony of Gospels.
245
Whose words are this "I am according to my insignificance have written these things, a man sprung from Adam, and fashioned by the Hands of Alaha, a disciple of Holy Scriptures"?
Mar Afrahath.
246
What does the first ten demonstrations of Mar Afrahath deal with?
First ten demonstrations deal with theological topics and Christian asceticism.
247
What does the Demonstrations XI-XXII of Mar Afrahath deal with?
Demonstrations XI-XXII deal with polemics between Christians and Jews.
248
What is Liber Gradum?
Liber Gradum is the Latin name of an anonymous Syriac treates on Spiritual direction. In Syriac it is named as ktaba d Masgata.
249
What is the uniqueness of Scripture interpretation of Mar Afrahath?
There the preacher and theologian are one and the same; theology is less speculative, less philosophical, but almost exclusively Biblical.
250
Who is the Kahna (Priest) in the First Church according to Liber Gradum?
Ourselves. (Each Believer)
251
Who is the Kahna (Priest) in the Second Church according to Liber Gradum?
The Priests ordained for Ministerial service in the Church.
252
Who is the Kahna (Priest) in the Third Church according to Liber Gradum?
M'shiha.
253
According to Mar Aprem, what is the relationship between human body of M'shiha and His Divinity?
Human Body of M'shiha is the Garment of His Divinity.
254
How does Mar Aprem connect Incarnation and Holy Qurbana?
Through Epiclesis.
255
How does the Church ascend to the Bridal Chamber beyond time and space?
In and through the Holy Liturgy.
256
According to Mar Aprem, what can sum up the Past, Present and Future of the Church?
Holy Qurbana.
257
According to Mar Aprem, what happens to our heart when we receive Holy Qurbana?
When we receive Holy Qurbana, our heart becomes the Bridal Chamber of M'shiha the Eternal Bridegroom.
