In this work, the author provides a purely historical examination of different kinds of sources in order to focus on how a paradoxical idea inherent in Christian thinking, the anticipation of God's kingdom on earth, interacts with various challenges of its environment. The outcome is a multidimensional development of new identities which enable a better understanding of the religious transformation in Egypt in the 4th century.

Different approaches have been taken towards the emergence of early monasticism in Egypt. One of its distinctive features is its variety of organizational forms, its theology, spirituality and social functions. Was this variety the result of social needs or merely a development of theological ideas? In this work, the author provides a purely historical examination of different kinds of sources in order to focus on how a paradoxical idea inherent in Christian thinking, the anticipation of God's kingdom on earth, interacts with various challenges of its environment. The outcome is a multidimensional development of new identities which enable a better understanding of the religious transformation in Egypt in the 4th century.

Autorentext
Geboren 1964; 1992-2004 Religionslehrer; 2004-2007 Dozent an der Kirchlichen Hochschule von Athen; seit 2007 Mitglied der Theologischen Fakultät der Universität Athen (Lecturer) im Fach der Allgemeinen Kirchengeschichte.