Eutychius of Constantinople (b. 512)

Saint Eutychius (Greek: Ευτύχιος, Eutychios), a towering figure in the ecclesiastical landscape of the 6th century, served as the Patriarch of Constantinople for two distinct periods: from 552 to 565 and again from 577 until his passing on April 5, 582. Revered as a saint within both the Catholic and Eastern Orthodox Christian traditions, his life was intricately woven into the complex political and theological fabric of the Byzantine Empire during the transformative reign of Emperor Justinian the Great. Born around 512 in the region of Phrygia, Asia Minor, to a military father, Eutychius initially pursued a monastic life, eventually becoming an archimandrite in Amaseia, which set the stage for his eventual elevation to the patriarchal throne.

His First Patriarchate and the Three Chapters Controversy (552-565)

Eutychius’s initial ascent to the patriarchal see of Constantinople in 552 was marked by the high hopes of Emperor Justinian, who sought a strong ally in his quest for religious unity across the vast empire. Indeed, Eutychius presided over the Fifth Ecumenical Council, the Second Council of Constantinople, in 553. This council was convened by Justinian primarily to resolve the contentious "Three Chapters" controversy. This complex theological dispute involved the condemnation of certain writings deemed to be Nestorian-leaning, a move intended to reconcile the Monophysite factions in the East with the Chalcedonian orthodoxy. Initially, Eutychius found himself in opposition to Justinian’s decree condemning the Three Chapters, but eventually, he yielded and signed the condemnation, likely under immense imperial pressure. However, this act, while seemingly a compromise, did not guarantee lasting peace. His unwavering stance on certain theological points and his perceived independence soon brought him into direct conflict with the powerful emperor.

In 564, Eutychius once again clashed with Justinian, this time over the emperor’s adoption of Aphthartodocetism – a theological doctrine asserting that Christ's body was incorruptible from the moment of conception and therefore not subject to human passions or defects. Eutychius firmly rejected this doctrine as heresy, vehemently arguing for the full humanity of Christ, which included his corruptible body before the Resurrection. His steadfast refusal to conform to the emperor’s new theological position led to his arrest and subsequent deposition in 565. He was exiled to a monastery in Amaseia, his former home, where he spent twelve years in monastic seclusion, continuing his theological studies and writings.

Restoration and Second Patriarchate (577-582)

Following Justinian's death and a period of instability, Eutychius was triumphantly recalled from exile by Emperor Justin II in 577. His return was met with widespread jubilation in Constantinople, signifying a public endorsement of his earlier theological integrity and popular support. He resumed his role as Patriarch, bringing a sense of stability back to the capital's ecclesiastical affairs. However, even in his second term, theological debates continued to rage. Eutychius himself became involved in discussions concerning the nature of the resurrected body, advocating for a view that differed from some prevailing interpretations of the time. He firmly believed that resurrected bodies would be more subtle than earthly ones, a stance that sometimes placed him at odds with contemporary thinkers like Gregory the Great, who would later become Pope. Eutychius passed away peacefully on April 5, 582, leaving behind a legacy defined by both deep piety and an unwavering commitment to what he perceived as orthodox Christian doctrine, even in the face of imperial opposition.

Legacy and Veneration

Saint Eutychius is profoundly honored in both Eastern Orthodox and Catholic traditions. The Orthodox Church commemorates his feast day on April 6, celebrating his steadfastness in faith and his significant contributions to Christian theology. In the Western tradition, his historical importance is acknowledged through his mention in the "Corpus Juris," specifically the Corpus Juris Civilis, the foundational compilation of Roman law commissioned by Emperor Justinian. This inclusion underscores his prominent role not just as a religious leader but also as a figure whose actions and decrees had legal and political ramifications within the Byzantine state. His life serves as a powerful testament to the challenges and responsibilities of ecclesiastical leadership during an era of intense theological ferment and imperial influence.

Frequently Asked Questions about Saint Eutychius

Who was Saint Eutychius?

Saint Eutychius was a prominent 6th-century Patriarch of Constantinople, serving two terms from 552-565 and 577-582. He is revered as a saint in both Eastern Orthodox and Catholic Christian traditions and was a key figure during the reign of Emperor Justinian the Great.

What were the main controversies Eutychius was involved in?

His most significant controversies were with Emperor Justinian the Great. He initially resisted but later yielded to Justinian's condemnation of the "Three Chapters" at the Second Council of Constantinople (553). Later, he firmly opposed Justinian's embrace of Aphthartodocetism, leading to his deposition and exile. He also engaged in debates about the nature of the resurrected body in his later years.

Why was Eutychius deposed from his patriarchate?

Eutychius was deposed in 565 primarily because he strongly opposed Emperor Justinian's theological views on Aphthartodocetism, which he considered heretical. His refusal to accept the emperor's doctrine led to his arrest and exile.

When is Saint Eutychius's feast day?

The Eastern Orthodox Church commemorates the feast day of Saint Eutychius on April 6.

What is the significance of his mention in the "Corpus Juris"?

His mention in the "Corpus Juris" (specifically the Corpus Juris Civilis) highlights his historical and legal significance within the Byzantine Empire. It signifies that his decrees, actions, or status as Patriarch were formally acknowledged or referenced within the empire's foundational legal codes, underscoring his influence beyond purely religious matters.