Great Schism Key Terms and Questions

What was one major difference between Western and Eastern Christianity during the Great Schism?

The controversy regarding icons was settled at the Second Council of Nicea in 787 CE, which rejected the use of icons.

What phrase did the Western Church add to the Creed that caused controversy with the Eastern Church?

Icons are sacred images of Jesus and the saints used in ________ or rituals.

Match the following terms with their definitions:

What was a significant outcome of the Second Council of Nicea?

The Eastern Church believed that icons were being worshipped excessively by the Western Church.

What major military and cultural event began to encroach on the Byzantine Empire in the 7th century?

The term 'schism' refers to the _______ into two churches over a dispute of beliefs.

Match the following differences between Western and Eastern Christianity:

Great Schism Key Terms and Questions

Icons: Sacred images (paintings or carvings) of religious figures used in devotions or rituals.
Iconoclasm: The destruction or attack of religious icons.
Schism: The separation of two churches due to differing beliefs, although not a complete break.

Differences Between Western and Eastern Christianity

Instability vs. Stability: Western Christianity faced significant changes and instability, while the Byzantine Empire in the East remained stable with Constantinople as its capital.
Development of Christianity: The West developed its own forms of Christianity, while the East remained somewhat isolated.
Rise of Islam: The rise of Islam in the 7th century impacted trade and threatened the Eastern empire, causing it to weaken.
Isolation and Flourishing: The East remained relatively isolated while flourishing. This was reflected in trade.

Eastern and Western Views on Icons

Eastern Devotion: Eastern Christians gave increased devotion to icons, seeing them as representations of religious figures.
Western Concerns: Western Christians felt that the devotion to icons had gone too far and was excessive.
Council of Nicea: In 787 CE, the Second Council of Nicaea addressed the controversy surrounding icons. The council decided that icons were permissible and that God had become visible in the person of Jesus Christ.

Controversy Surrounding the Creed

Western Addition: Western Christian bishops added the phrase "and the Son" to the Creed regarding the Holy Spirit's procession.
Eastern Objection: The Eastern Christians felt that this addition exceeded the pope's authority and was not theologically sound.
Holy Spirit's Procession: The controversy revolved around the addition of the phrase that the Holy Spirit proceeded from the Father and the Son. The East felt the addition was not justified.

This quiz explores key terms and concepts related to the Great Schism between Eastern and Western Christianity. It covers important terms such as icons, iconoclasm, and the cultural differences that contributed to the schism. Test your understanding of the impact of Islam and the distinct practices regarding icons in both traditions.