Dionysius of Alexandria

Common questions

Who was Dionysius of Alexandria?

Dionysius of Alexandria (190–265) — Pupil of Origen, head of the Catechetical School, then 14th bishop of Alexandria (247-265). Wrote against Sabellianism and on the authorship of Revelation.

Who taught Dionysius of Alexandria?

Origen of Alexandria.

Who did Dionysius of Alexandria correspond with?

Pope Dionysius and Pope Stephen I.

Who did Dionysius of Alexandria oppose?

Paul of Samosata.

Who did Dionysius of Alexandria succeed as bishop of Alexandria?

Heraclas of Alexandria.

Sources for biography

• Eusebius, Hist. Eccl. 6.40-7.28 primary
• Jerome, De Viris Illustribus 69 primary

documented connections(5)

• taught by Origen of Alexandria
  Dionysius was a pupil of Origen at Alexandria and later headed the Catechetical School.
  Eusebius, Hist. Eccl. 6.29
• succeeded in see Heraclas of Alexandria
  Dionysius succeeded Heraclas as bishop of Alexandria in 247.
  Eusebius, Hist. Eccl. 6.35
• corresponded (incoming) Pope Dionysius
  The two Dionysii corresponded over Trinitarian language; Dionysius of Rome rebuked apparent subordinationism, Dionysius of Alexandria clarified his position.
  Athanasius, De Sententia Dionysii · Eusebius, Hist. Eccl. 7.7-9
• opposed Paul of Samosata
  Dionysius of Alexandria wrote against Paul's adoptionist Christology; later synods at Antioch deposed Paul.
  Eusebius, Hist. Eccl. 7.27-30
• corresponded (incoming) Pope Stephen I
  Dionysius wrote to Stephen urging moderation in the rebaptism dispute.
  Eusebius, Hist. Eccl. 7.5