Philo's Use of Chrestos: Unveiling a Hidden Layer of Early Christian Thought

In the study of early Christian texts and their interpretations, the writings of Philo of Alexandria hold a significant yet often overlooked place. Philo, a Hellenistic Jewish philosopher, provides a unique lens through which we can understand the nuanced meanings of terms like "Chrestos" (meaning "good" or "kind") and their implications for early Christian thought. This blog post explores Philo's use of "Chrestos" and how it informs our understanding of early Christian theology and the possible connections with Marcionite beliefs.

Philo's Texts: A Deep Dive

Philo's use of the term "Chrestos" is integral to his theological and philosophical discussions. Here are some key excerpts and their interpretations:

1. Exodus 3:9 and 20:24:

   • Greek Text: "Behold, the cry of the children of Israel has come to me. It is quite commendable to bring supplication before God; but he would not have arrived if the one calling had not been kind."
   • Interpretation: Philo emphasizes the kindness (χρηστὸς) of God, suggesting that the divine response to human supplication is rooted in God's inherent goodness. This aligns with the idea that "Chrestos" (the good or kind one) is a fundamental attribute of the divine, providing a basis for interpreting divine interactions with humanity.

2. Genesis 26:2 and 4:8:

   • Greek Text: "For the only impassible form in creation, Isaac, prays to use an irrational passion...however, the good God (χρηστὸς θεὸς) will not work on the invulnerable race with passion."
   • Interpretation: Philo contrasts the good God (χρηστὸς θεὸς) with the irrational passions that afflict humanity, suggesting that divine goodness transcends human frailties. This distinction highlights the purity and benevolence of the divine nature.

3. Concept of Kindness and Justice:

   • Philo often juxtaposes the attributes of kindness (χρηστότης) and justice, suggesting that divine actions are inherently kind and aimed at the ultimate good of humanity. This dichotomy is crucial in understanding early Christian interpretations of divine justice and mercy.

4. Oracles and Prophecies:

   • Greek Text: "And there is a dogmatic oracle: 'For if the thought of God comes into the mind, immediately it reasons well and heals all its diseases.'"
   • Interpretation: Philo suggests that the presence of divine thought (and by extension, divine kindness) brings healing and rationality to the human mind. This healing aspect of divine kindness is a recurring theme in early Christian thought, emphasizing the transformative power of divine interaction.

Theological Implications

Philo's writings provide a rich tapestry of theological insights that resonate with early Christian and Marcionite beliefs. His emphasis on the goodness of God (χρηστὸς θεὸς) and the transformative power of divine kindness parallels the Marcionite portrayal of Jesus as "Chrestos," distinct from the Jewish Messiah.

• Marcionite Distinction: Marcionites viewed Jesus not as the Jewish Messiah (Christos) but as "Chrestos," a figure embodying divine goodness and mercy. Philo's emphasis on the benevolent nature of God aligns with this Marcionite interpretation, suggesting a possible philosophical and theological lineage.

• Early Christian Interpretations: Early Christians, influenced by Hellenistic thought, may have adopted and adapted Philo's concepts to articulate their understanding of Jesus as a figure of divine kindness and transformative power. This adoption underscores the diversity and richness of early Christian theological developments.

Conclusion

Philo's use of "Chrestos" offers a profound insight into the theological landscape of early Christianity. By highlighting the divine attributes of goodness and kindness, Philo provides a foundational understanding that resonates with both early Christian and Marcionite beliefs. Recognizing and incorporating these insights can enrich our comprehension of early Christian theology and its diverse interpretations.

Incorporating Philo's nuanced use of "Chrestos" into modern scholarship challenges us to reconsider entrenched biases and appreciate the theological diversity that characterized early Christianity. This broader perspective not only deepens our understanding of early Christian texts but also fosters a more inclusive and comprehensive approach to theological studies.