Existentialism and the theological thought of George Florovsky

Abstract

This paper offers an analysis of the relations between Florovsky`s historical theology and existentialism. According to the author, Florovsky would accept the term “existential” as an essential characteristic of his own theology. At the same time the Russian theologian distances himself from existentialism. In particular, he sharply criticizes what he calls “dialectical theology” as a typical manifestation of “existentialism in theology”. Finally, and in contrast, e.g., with Tillich, for these key notions of existentialism Florovsky gives no philosophical explanation of his own. In Florovsky's complex attitude towards existentialism, therefore, elements of a positive reception are combined with a critical attitude.