Sergei Bulgakov (1871–1944) was one of the most influential Eastern Orthodox theologians of the twentieth century. After beginning his career as a professor of political economy at the University of Kiev, Bulgakov underwent a profound intellectual and spiritual transformation. Moving from Marxism to Idealism and ultimately to a renewed Orthodox faith, he became one of the leading theological voices of his time.
Following his ordination to the priesthood in 1918, Bulgakov fled Moscow during the early years of the Soviet regime. He eventually settled in Paris, where he helped found the Saint-Serge Theological Institute, serving as professor, rector, and dean until his death. There he developed an original synthesis of Orthodox theology, philosophy, and mysticism that would shape generations of theologians.
In this comprehensive study, Fr. Aidan Nichols, OP, offers both an introduction to Bulgakov’s life and a systematic presentation of his dogmatic theology. Drawing on Bulgakov’s major works, Nichols illuminates his vision of divine-human communion, his theology of creation and redemption, and his distinctive “sophiological” understanding of divine wisdom.
Praised by Bishop Kallistos of Diokleia and Dr. Rowan Williams as a timely and authoritative study, this work remains the most thorough English-language introduction to Bulgakov’s thought and enduring legacy.
About the Author
Aidan Nichols, OP, is a Dominican friar of Blackfriars, Cambridge, and one of the most prolific Catholic theologians writing in English today. He has published numerous books on Catholic and Orthodox theology, including studies on Vladimir Lossky, Sergei Bulgakov, and the history of modern theological thought.
