Toward an Orthodox Animal Theology

This book offers an Eastern Orthodox animal theology, presenting theological, ontological, and ethical arguments against animal suffering and abuse.

Historically, theological discussions have emphasized human exceptionalism, prioritizing the needs and well-being of humanity at the expense of the other-than-human. In this book, Nikolaos Asproulis locates an Eastern Orthodox doctrine which advocates on behalf of animal life. Moving beyond rudimentary discussions of anthropomonism, Asproulis prompts readers to find meaning in the alleviation of animal suffering not only through care but through an entirely different theological vision that recognizes the latent value of non-human beings. Across three chapters, this book considers the often-ignored, pro-animal voices within the early Christian church and crafts an up-to-date animal theology which considers animal life within the context of ecological crisis and climate change. By articulating a particularly Orthodox theological account of animals, this study fills a gap within Orthodox theology and scholarly study. At its core, Asproulis provides a framework for how to meaningfully advocate for animal life and resist pervasive theologies and cultural pressures to live at the expense of animal life.