Schism · 553 · 2 June
Three Chapters controversy
Emperor Justinian wanted to heal the division that followed Chalcedon. To reassure Christians who thought Chalcedon made Jesus seem divided, he condemned three older sets of writings that seemed to pull Jesus' humanity and divinity apart. Instead of bringing peace, the decision created another argument. Many Western bishops saw it as political pressure and a betrayal of Chalcedon. A plan meant to heal an old wound opened new divisions in North Africa and Italy.
At a glance
- Type
- Schism
- Date remembered
- 2 June, AD 553
- What kind of event is this?
- A break in communion where an unresolved argument became a visible division.
- Key line
- Trying to heal Chalcedon created another wound.
Highlights
- Justinian targeted Antiochene writings.
- Western bishops resisted.
- Pope Vigilius was pressured.
- Aquileia broke communion.
How it happened
What happened
Justinian pushed for the condemnation of three bodies of Antiochene writings.
The argument
Was condemning long-dead Antiochene theologians a faithful defense of Cyril or an attack on Chalcedon?
What changed
Constantinople II condemned the Three Chapters, but Western resistance hardened.
Why it matters
The controversy shows that posthumous condemnations could destabilize communion as much as clarify doctrine.
Aftermath
The Aquileian schism over the issue lasted into the late seventh century.