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Definition:
In the Eastern Orthodox Church, the term theotokos is used as a title for Mary and
it means "the one who gave birth to God." There was some disagreement about its
appropriateness and Nestorius, patriarch of Constantinople from 428 to 431, supported
the argument that such a title could be misunderstood and that the title Christotokos,
"the one who gave birth to Christ," was preferable. He was attacked as a heretic for this and
condemned and deposed at the Council of Ephesus in 431.
Today, members of the Eastern Orthodox Church exhibit a great deal of devotion and veneration towards the theotokos, dedicating a wide variety of art, iconography, poetry and literature to her. Mary is regarded as sinless and perpetually a virgin, serving as Queen of Heaven.
Also Known As: none
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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