Heretical Orthodoxy: Lev Tolstoi and the Russian Orthodox Church

Lev Tolstoi was a famous writer and critic of the Church who significantly impacted ethical and religious thought. He creatively combined his Christian heritage with his own life experiences to reinterpret the Christian faith, leading to the "Tolstoi phenomenon." This book explores Tolstoi's relationship with the Orthodox Church and its teachings, highlighting the Church's attempts to counteract his influence.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 316 pages
Publication date: 23 May 2024
Publisher: Cambridge University Press

Lev Tolstoi, a renowned writer of global acclaim, possessed not only a literary legacy but also a profound and influential mind. As a thinker, he delved deeply into ethical and religious matters, leaving a lasting impact on society long after his passing. For an entire generation, Tolstoi set the agenda for ethical and religious thought, not only in Russia but also across the world.

The foundation of Tolstoi's main ideas lay in his Christian heritage, which he selectively and creatively blended. While he professed to be rediscovering the pure doctrine of Christ as it had existed before the Church's perversion, in reality, he undertook a radical reinterpretation of the Christian faith he had personally experienced, specifically Russian Orthodoxy.

This book provides a fresh and comprehensive exploration of Tolstoi's relationship with the Orthodox Church and its teachings. It sheds light on how the Russian Church responded to the "Tolstoi phenomenon" and attempted to counteract the influence of this new "heretic." However, their efforts proved to be largely unsuccessful.

Tolstoi's profound insights and innovative reinterpretations of Christianity had a profound impact on his readers and continue to resonate today. His work challenges traditional religious beliefs and encourages individuals to explore their own spiritual paths. Through his writings, Tolstoi invites us to question the essence of faith, morality, and human existence, leading us to a deeper understanding of ourselves and the world around us.

In conclusion, Lev Tolstoi was a multifaceted genius who left an indelible mark on literature, philosophy, and religion. His legacy as a writer and thinker continues to inspire and challenge us, reminding us of the power of creativity, introspection, and the pursuit of truth.

ISBN-13: 9781009260411