THE PHENOMENON OF HUMAN PERFECTION: RELEVANCE AND FUNDAMENTAL PRINCIPLES OF STUDY

Abstract

This scientific article is dedicated to the phenomenon of human perfection, which is studied within the framework of Orthodox anthropological discourse. The article reveals the relevance of researching the phenomenon of human perfection and the fundamental principles of its study. Based on the author’s scientific research, the interrelation of this phenomenon with the Orthodox doctrine of God’s nature in Himself is established, the connection of human perfection with the perfection of God is formulated, one of the possible and acceptable definitions of the concept of human perfection is developed, and four fundamental principles of its study are conceived, based on universally recognized principles of theological-anthropological research. Key aspects of studying the phenomenon of human perfection are identified, including the following: the religiousphilosophical discourse actively studies the phenomenon of human perfection, developing concepts based on theological and anthropological principles; Orthodox anthropology is a key direction in this research, considering the human being as the highest form of a rational being, endowed with special relationships with God; the human being in Orthodox theology is considered a microcosm that opens access to understanding the world and God; human perfection is studied through a methodology based on the analysis of Revelation preserved in the Church’s tradition and the synthesis of ideas and provisions concerning the human being; according to religious-philosophical discourse, the human being has a dual nature, which includes both spiritual and material aspects. This duality makes the human being a unique subject occupying a central place in the world; the problematic nature of the human being, its incompleteness and contradictions, become the object of study for Orthodox anthropology, prompting an analysis of the spiritual development and evolution of the human being; the human being stands at the boundary of two worlds, the material and the spiritual, and combines them within itself. It opens up the possibility for the realization of the spiritual dimension of existence through the perception of eternity; personality is a key characteristic of the human being, making each individual unique and irreplaceable. It is actualized in interaction with other personalities; the search for meaning in human existence takes place through solitude, interaction with others, and faith in God. Solitude reveals the true meanings of existence, and the connection with God is the basis for finding meaning and perfecting the human being.