Basil of Seleucia’s homily In Elisaeum et Sunamitidem (CPG 6656.10) and its Old Georgian Translation
Basil of Seleucia’s homily In Elisaeum et Sunamitidem (CPG 6656.10) and its Old Georgian Translation

Author(s): Tsotne Chkheidze
Subject(s): Theology and Religion, History of Religion
Published by: Editura Doxologia
Keywords: Basil of Seleucia (Isauria); Homily; Translation; Old Georgian; Manuscript; Elisha; Prophetic action;
Summary/Abstract: Basil of Seleucia was a notable fifth-century bishop of Seleucia in Isauria and a distinguished preacher whose life and contributions have not been comprehensively studied. His figure presents significant challenges and opportunities for scholarly investigation. Basil was actively involved in the Synod of Constantinople in 448, which resulted in the condemnation of Eutyches. Subsequently, he voted in favor of Eutyches’ rehabilitation at the Latrocinium, which necessitated that Basil provide an explanation for his actions at the Fourth Ecumenical Council of Chalcedon. Following this, he appears to have emerged as a vigorous opponent of Monophysitism, thereby enhancing his importance in the theological discussions of his era. Basil of Seleucia presents a fascinating area of study, particularly in relation to his sermons, which some scholars suggest may have been influenced by Nestorius1. More than fifty sermons attributed to him have been preserved, including a notable collection of forty-one homilies (CPG 6656). These works were last published in volume 85 of the PG in 1864. Additionally, it is significant to note that at least three2 of these homilies have been translated into Old Georgian, highlighting Basil's teachings' enduring relevance and cultural impact. The preeminent example of Basil’s corpus within Georgian literary tradition is the translation of the sermon In Elisaeum et Sunamitidem (CPG 6656.10), which takes tenth place in PG. The objective of this paper is to analyze several philological and theological dimensions of the aforementioned Georgian translation. By examining these critical factors, we illuminate their profound impact on the content and interpretation of key dogmatic statements.

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