Filantropia (φιλανθρωπια) - humanitaryzm chrześcijański według Klemensa Aleksandryjskiego

Abstract

The term φιλανθρωπια occurs 38 times in the writings of Clement of Alexandria, and in 70% it has a theological assignment. The loving subject, directly or indirectly, is God. His love towards man is manifested as kindness, goodness, benevolence and mercy. The ideal of philanthropy may be considered at a purely human level, yet not in total isolation from the religious values, and this is because of the tie between philanthropy and Christian love (agape). The ideal of philanthropy is a starting point in the process of Christian coming to perfection which starts from human formation. In the process of education this ideal is transformed into brotherly love (φιλανθρωπια). Practicing the latter leads to love-agâpe. According to Clement it is impossible to isolate the ideal of a "love towards man" from "God’s love towards man". Otherwise the ideal of philanthropy would be deformed and diminished.