This book serves as an introduction to the life, personality, and thought of Vladimir Sergeevich Solov’ëv, the founder of Russian sophiology—the theology and philosophy of divine wisdom. Widely regarded as Russia’s most significant philosopher, Solov’ëv’s ideas have inspired renewed interest since the end of the Soviet era and have influenced a modern “philo-sophiological” movement in the West.
Fr. Aidan Nichols, OP, presents Solov’ëv’s thought in three major stages. In his early theosophical phase, Solov’ëv pursued an integral understanding of truth and reality. His middle theocratic period focused on realizing the common good in both Christendom and global society. Finally, his late theurgical period emphasized the transcendentals of beauty, nature, art, and love.
Nichols explains how Solov’ëv sought to articulate a Christian doctrine of “Sophia,” or divine Wisdom, drawing from both Christian and Jewish mystical sources. Though Solov’ëv never produced a fully systematic sophiology, his ideas reveal deep insight into the relationship between creation, divine wisdom, and the human vocation.
Nichols also explores Solov’ëv’s pioneering ecumenical vision. He longed for reunion between the Orthodox and Catholic Churches—and ultimately among all Christians—while recognizing that true reconciliation could only come through divine grace and the return of Christ.
In an age marked by confusion and secular utopianism, Solov’ëv’s prophetic warnings against building a global order without reference to God remain strikingly relevant.
About the Author
Aidan Nichols, OP, is a Dominican priest of Blackfriars, Cambridge, and one of the most prolific Catholic theologians writing in English today. His works span both Eastern and Western Christian theology, including studies on Vladimir Lossky and Sergeĭ Bulgakov, as well as Alban and Sergius: The Story of a Journal.
