Who was Cyrus of Alexandria and what were his primary roles?

Cyrus of Alexandria was a prominent figure in the 7th century who served as the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Alexandria and also as the second-to-last Byzantine prefect of Egypt.

What was Cyrus of Alexandria's Arabic name, and what does it mean?

Cyrus of Alexandria was known by the Arabic name Al-Muqawqis, which is derived from the Coptic language and signifies "the Caucasian," referencing his origins.

Where was Cyrus of Alexandria born, and what does his nickname suggest about his background?

Cyrus of Alexandria was born in the late 6th century in Phasis, located in the Caucasus region. His nickname, Al-Muqawqis, is Coptic for "the Caucasian," indicating his geographical origin.

What were the key positions held by Cyrus of Alexandria during the 7th century?

Cyrus held two significant positions: he was the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Alexandria from 631 to 642 and served as the Prefect of Egypt, first from 629 to November 640, and then again from September 641 until his death in March 642.

What theological doctrine did Cyrus of Alexandria advocate for, and what does it entail?

Cyrus was a proponent of Monothelitism, a theological belief that asserted Christ possessed only one will. This doctrine was an evolution of the earlier monenergist formula, which stated Christ had one energy and one will (*hēn thélema kaì mía enérgeia*).

When did Cyrus become the Bishop of Phasis and later the Patriarch of Alexandria?

Cyrus assumed the position of Bishop of Phasis in 620. He was later appointed Patriarch of Alexandria in 630 by Emperor Heraclius, with the intention of implementing the monenergist plan.

What was the "monenergist plan" and how did Cyrus become involved with it?

The monenergist plan was a theological proposal aimed at reconciling the Miaphysites of Egypt with the Chalcedonian Church. Cyrus was consulted on this plan by Patriarch Sergius of Constantinople and embraced the formula after Sergius assured him of papal endorsement.

What was the Pact of Union, or "Satisfactio," and what was its controversial element?

The Pact of Union, also known as the "Satisfactio," was an agreement presented by Cyrus in June 633. It consisted of nine articles, with the seventh article notably asserting Monothelitism.

How did the Miaphysites react to Cyrus's Pact of Union?

The Miaphysites welcomed the Pact of Union but insisted that the Chalcedonian church should make concessions to them, rather than the other way around.

What actions did Cyrus take against the Copts during his tenure as Patriarch?

For approximately ten years, Cyrus harshly persecuted the Copts, attempting to force their conversion to his theological views. This included appointing Chalcedonian bishops and ordering the execution of Coptic priests.

What happened to Pope Benjamin I, the Coptic Patriarch, during Cyrus's persecution?

Pope Benjamin I, the Coptic Patriarch, was forced into hiding to escape Cyrus's persecution.

What fate befell Mennas, the brother of Pope Benjamin I?

Mennas, the brother of Pope Benjamin I, was captured by Cyrus's forces, subjected to severe torture, and ultimately drowned in the sea for refusing to renounce his faith.

How did the Coptic people resist Cyrus's persecution?

Despite the absence of priests, the Coptic people continued to hold secret gatherings, with individuals like Agathon risking their lives to administer communion.

What was Cyrus's role and attitude during the Arab conquest of Egypt?

Cyrus served as both Prefect of Egypt and Patriarch of Alexandria during the Arab conquest. He exhibited a strong desire to hasten Egypt's submission to the Arabs and actively sabotaged the Byzantine military's defense efforts.

What tribute did Cyrus pay to the Arabs, and for what purpose?

For three years following the Muslim conquest of the Levant, Cyrus paid tribute to the Arabs to prevent them from conquering Egypt.

What occurred during the Arab siege of Pelusium in 640, involving Cyrus?

During the siege of Pelusium, Cyrus did not intervene, and the city eventually fell to the Arabs in February 640. His daughter, Armenousa, may have sent reinforcements.

Who negotiated with 'Amr ibn al-'As at Belbeis, and what options were presented?

Two Christian monks, Cyrus of Alexandria, and the Roman general Aretion negotiated with 'Amr ibn al-'As. 'Amr offered them the choice to convert to Islam, pay the jizya tax, or fight.

What was the outcome of the battle at Belbeis after the negotiations?

Aretion, the monks, and Cyrus's daughter Armenousa chose to fight. The battle resulted in a Muslim victory, with Aretion being killed and Armenousa captured.

What treaty did Cyrus negotiate during the siege of the Babylon Fortress?

Cyrus negotiated a treaty with the Arabs during the siege of the Babylon Fortress that stipulated the surrender of the Thebaid region.

How did Emperor Heraclius react to Cyrus's treaty with the Arabs?

Emperor Heraclius was greatly angered by the treaty, recalling Cyrus, threatening him, and ultimately exiling him.

What was the political situation in Constantinople regarding Egypt after Heraclius's death?

After Heraclius's death, his sons Constantine III and Heraclonas became co-emperors. Martina, Heraclonas' mother, ruled and favored Cyrus's plan to surrender to the Arabs, contrasting with Theodore's desire to fight.

What happened to Cyrus's troops after Martina was deposed by Valentine?

Valentine, who deposed Martina, sent envoys to Cyrus's troops, instructing them to return to Constantinople and abandon Cyrus.

When did Cyrus and Theodore return to Alexandria, and what was the state of the city?

Cyrus and Theodore returned to Alexandria on September 14, 641. At this time, the city was under siege by the Muslims.

Who did Theodore replace as military commander in Alexandria, and why was this change made?

Theodore replaced Domentianus as the military commander of the garrison in Alexandria. Domentianus was exiled due to his perceived cowardice in fleeing from Nikiu.

What was the significance of the procession held upon Cyrus and Theodore's arrival in Alexandria?

The procession, which included a relic of the True Cross, was a notable event upon their arrival, possibly intended to rally spirits, although Cyrus had already resolved to surrender.

What were the key terms of the treaty Cyrus negotiated for the surrender of Alexandria?

The treaty included an eleven-month armistice, the departure of Roman forces by sea, a ban on any Roman return to Egypt, protection for churches and Jews, and the provision of hostages.

How did the populace of Alexandria react to the revelation of the surrender treaty?

An enraged mob attempted to stone Cyrus upon learning of the treaty, but he appeased them by explaining his actions were to save them and their children.

What led to Cyrus's depression in the final months of his life?

Cyrus experienced depression due to guilt over losing Egypt, his failure to reconcile with the Copts after his persecution of them, the downfall of his political allies, and the fear of facing consequences for his actions.

How did John of Nikiu describe the cause of Cyrus's death?

John of Nikiu provided two accounts of Cyrus's death: one stating he died of natural causes, and another suggesting he succumbed to dysentery brought on by excessive grief on March 21, 642.

What is a later legend concerning the manner of Cyrus's death?

A later legend, attributed to Severus, claims that Cyrus committed suicide by licking a poisoned signet ring.

Who succeeded Cyrus as Patriarch of Alexandria, and when?

Peter IV succeeded Cyrus as Patriarch of Alexandria on July 14, 642.

What event marked the end of Roman rule in Egypt?

The end of Roman rule in Egypt occurred on September 29, 642, when 'Amr ibn al-'As entered Alexandria with his Arab army, following the withdrawal of the last Roman troops, concluding 671 years of Roman presence.

What writings by Cyrus of Alexandria have been preserved?

Three letters from Cyrus to Sergius, known as the "Satisfactio," have been preserved in the records of the Roman Synod of the Lateran and the Sixth Ecumenical Council.

What theological points did Cyrus address in his letters to Sergius?

In his letters, Cyrus expressed his acceptance of the Ecthesis, detailed his theological dilemma between Pope Leo and Sergius, and recounted the conversion of the Theodosians.

Who opposed Cyrus's theological arguments, and on what grounds?

St. Sophronius of Jerusalem and St. Maximus opposed Cyrus's theological positions, accusing him of altering established texts and introducing changes, while refuting his claims of support from earlier Church Fathers.

Who is widely identified as Al-Muqawqis, the recipient of a letter from Prophet Muhammad?

Al-Muqawqis, the ruler of Egypt who received a letter from Prophet Muhammad inviting him to Islam, is widely identified with Cyrus of Alexandria.

What was the content and purpose of Prophet Muhammad's letter to Al-Muqawqis?

Sent around 628 CE, the letter invited Al-Muqawqis to embrace Islam, pledged protection for the Christian community, and bore Muhammad's seal of prophethood.

How did Al-Muqawqis (Cyrus of Alexandria) respond to Prophet Muhammad's invitation?

Al-Muqawqis responded courteously but declined the invitation to convert, returning gifts that included two Coptic women, Maria al-Qibṭiyya and her sister Sirīn, along with textiles and a mule.

What was the significance of Cyrus's dual role as Patriarch and Prefect during the Arab conquest?

Cyrus's dual role meant he held both religious and political authority in Egypt. This dual capacity influenced his decisions, particularly his inclination towards surrender to the Arab forces, as he sought to manage the situation from both perspectives.

What was the Byzantine military commander Theodore's perspective on the Arab invasion of Egypt?

Theodore, the commander-in-chief of the Byzantine army in Egypt, advocated for continued resistance against the Arabs and hoped for imperial reinforcements, differing from Cyrus's preference for surrender.

What was the ultimate fate of the Byzantine presence in Egypt?

The Byzantine presence in Egypt concluded when Theodore departed with the last Roman troops on September 17, 642, after the surrender of Alexandria, marking the end of Roman Egypt after 671 years.

What was the historical context for Cyrus's involvement in theological disputes like Monothelitism?

Cyrus became involved in theological disputes as part of Emperor Heraclius's efforts to unify the empire by reconciling different Christian factions, such as the Miaphysites, through theological compromises like monenergist and later Monothelitism.

What was the role of Cyrus's sister and her husband in the events in Egypt?

Cyrus's sister was married to Domentianus, who served as the governor of Faiyum. Domentianus was later exiled by Theodore for his perceived cowardice during the Arab invasion.

What does the source suggest about the accuracy of Arab accounts of Cyrus's relatives?

While Arab sources like Al-Waqidi name various relatives of Cyrus, historian Karl Stowasser describes these individuals as "pure legend," suggesting potential embellishment in the historical accounts.

What was the outcome of the attempt on Cyrus's life?

An attempt on Cyrus's life was uncovered by Eudocianus, the brother of Domentianus. The conspirators were subsequently executed without trial.

What was the significance of the Feast of the Cross in relation to Cyrus's return to Alexandria?

Cyrus and Theodore returned to Alexandria on September 14, 641, which was the Feast of the Cross. A large procession was organized to celebrate their arrival, which included carrying a relic of the True Cross.

What was Cyrus's motivation for cooperating with the Muslims?

Cyrus's cooperation with the Muslims appears to have been driven by a desire to run Egypt independently of Constantinople and to gain favor with the Coptic population, though his efforts to appease them ultimately failed.

What was the historical significance of the succession of Patriarchs of Alexandria listed in the article?

The lists of Patriarchs of Alexandria provide a chronological overview of the leadership within both the Greek Orthodox and Coptic Orthodox churches, contextualizing Cyrus's position within the broader history of the Patriarchate.

Cyrus Of Alexandria Wiki: Cyrus of Alexandria: A Byzantine Prelate in a World Transformed

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Cyrus of Alexandria: An Overview

Dual Authority

Cyrus of Alexandria, known in Arabic sources as Al-Muqawqis, was a pivotal figure in the 7th century. He held the significant positions of both the Greek Orthodox Patriarch of Alexandria and the second-to-last Byzantine Prefect of Egypt. This dual role placed him at the confluence of religious authority and imperial administration during a period of immense geopolitical upheaval.^[1]

Historical Context

Serving from 631 to 642 as Patriarch and intermittently as Prefect (629-640 and 641-642), Cyrus navigated the Byzantine Empire's decline and the burgeoning Islamic expansion. His tenure coincided with the Arab conquest of Egypt, a transformative event that reshaped the region's political and religious landscape.^[3]

Key Actions and Controversies

Cyrus is remembered for his role in promoting Monothelitism, a theological doctrine concerning the nature of Christ. He also engaged in the harsh persecution of the Coptic population and played a controversial part in the surrender of Egypt to the Arab forces, often seen as facilitating the Byzantine military's defense efforts.^[1]^[2]

Early Life and Ascendancy

Caucasian Origins

Born in the late 6th century in Phasis, located in the Caucasus region, Cyrus earned the epithet "Al-Muqawqis" from Coptic sources, signifying his Caucasian heritage.^[4] While some Arab accounts detail extensive family connections, modern historians often regard these as legendary embellishments.^[6]

Bishop of Phasis

In 620, Cyrus assumed the episcopal see of Phasis. During the Byzantine-Sasanian War of 602–628, he was consulted by Sergius I, the Patriarch of Constantinople, regarding a theological compromise aimed at securing the support of Egypt's Miaphysite population for the Byzantine Emperor Heraclius. This initiative, known as the monenergist plan, proposed acknowledging Christ's two natures while asserting a single divine will and energy.^[7]

Theological Compromise

Endorsed by Pope Honorius I and deemed compatible with Chalcedonian doctrine by Sergius, Cyrus embraced this formula. He was subsequently appointed Patriarch of Alexandria in 630, tasked with implementing this religious reconciliation strategy.^[8]

Patriarchal Tenure and Persecution

The Pact of Union

As Patriarch, Cyrus actively promoted monenergist principles, which evolved into Monothelitism. In 633, he presented the "Pact of Union" at an Alexandrian synod, outlining nine articles, the seventh of which explicitly defined Monothelitism. This agreement garnered support from many, though the Miaphysites insisted on Chalcedonian concessions.^[7]

Persecution of Copts

For approximately a decade, Cyrus implemented a policy of severe persecution against the Egyptian Coptic population, attempting to enforce his theological stance. He appointed Chalcedonian bishops and ordered the execution of Coptic priests. Despite this, the Coptic faithful maintained clandestine gatherings, with figures like Agathon risking their lives to administer sacraments.^[1]

Theological Opposition

Cyrus's theological positions faced significant opposition from prominent figures such as St. Sophronius of Jerusalem and St. Maximus the Confessor. They accused him of misinterpreting sacred texts and introducing doctrinal alterations, refuting his claims of support from Church Fathers and clarifying the distinct nature of Christ's divine and human attributes.^[9]

Prefect of Egypt and the Arab Conquest

Surrender of Egypt

During the Arab conquest of Egypt, Cyrus served as both Prefect and Patriarch. Historical accounts suggest he exhibited a persistent inclination towards hastening Egypt's submission to the invading forces.^[1] For three years, he paid tribute to the Arabs to avert conquest.^{[note 3]}

Negotiations with Amr ibn al-As

Following the fall of Pelusium and Belbeis, Cyrus negotiated with Amr ibn al-As. He proposed a treaty that included terms for tribute, an armistice, and the withdrawal of Byzantine forces. This treaty, however, was met with fury by Emperor Heraclius, who viewed it as an act of cowardice and treason.^[1]

Imperial Displeasure

Heraclius summoned Cyrus to Constantinople, threatened him, and exiled him. Following Heraclius's death, Cyrus was recalled by his successors and granted permission to negotiate peace with the Arabs at any price. Despite this, his efforts to secure Egypt's surrender and his perceived collaboration led to further political instability and ultimately contributed to the final Byzantine withdrawal from Alexandria in 642.^[1]

Theological Stance and Condemnation

Monothelitism

Cyrus was a key proponent of Monothelitism, a Christological doctrine asserting that Jesus Christ had only one divine will and energy. This doctrine was an attempt to bridge the theological divide between the Chalcedonian and Miaphysite factions within Christianity, particularly in Egypt.^[8]

The "Satisfactio"

His theological views were articulated in three letters to Sergius of Constantinople, collectively known as the "Satisfactio." These letters, preserved in the records of Roman synods, detailed his acceptance of the imperial Ecthesis and his efforts to reconcile various Christian groups.^[24]

Heresy Accusations

Despite his intentions, Cyrus's theological positions were ultimately condemned as heretical. He was officially censured at the Lateran Council of 649 and again at the Third Council of Constantinople in 680, reflecting the enduring theological controversies of the era.^[8]

Correspondence and Influence

Letters to Sergius

Cyrus's primary documented writings are his three letters to Patriarch Sergius of Constantinople. These epistles, preserved in synodal acts, reveal his engagement with the theological debates of the time, particularly concerning Monothelitism, and his attempts to navigate the complex relationship between imperial policy and ecclesiastical doctrine.^[24]

Interaction with Muhammad

Historical accounts suggest that Cyrus, identified as "Al-Muqawqis," received a letter from the Prophet Muhammad around 628 CE, inviting him to embrace Islam. Cyrus's response was courteous but declined the invitation, returning gifts and maintaining his position.^[25]^[26]

Enduring Legacy

Personal Decline

In the final months of his life, Cyrus experienced profound distress. Overwhelmed by guilt over Egypt's loss, his inability to reconcile with the Coptic population, and the political turmoil in Constantinople, he succumbed to depression. Historical accounts vary on the exact cause of his death in March 642, with some suggesting natural causes and others hinting at suicide.^[1]

Historical Judgment

Cyrus's actions, particularly his role in the surrender of Egypt and his theological positions, led to his posthumous condemnation as a heretic. His legacy remains complex, reflecting the turbulent intersection of religious doctrine, imperial politics, and military conquest in the 7th-century Mediterranean world.

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References

al-Tabari, History of the Kings, p. 862

Abu Salih the Armenian, The churches and monasteries of Egypt and some neighbouring countries, tr. B.T.A.Evetts, p. 168

"Omar (634-644)", The Islamic World to 1600 Multimedia History Tutorials by the Applied History Group, University of Calgary. Last accessed 20 Oct 2006

A full list of references for this article are available at the Cyrus of Alexandria Wikipedia page

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Cyrus of Alexandria

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Cyrus of Alexandria: An Overview ℹ️

👑 Dual Authority

🌍 Historical Context

📜 Key Actions and Controversies

Early Life and Ascendancy 🌱

⛰️ Caucasian Origins

⛪ Bishop of Phasis

🤝 Theological Compromise

Patriarchal Tenure and Persecution ⚖️

🕊️ The Pact of Union

🔥 Persecution of Copts

🗣️ Theological Opposition

Prefect of Egypt and the Arab Conquest 🛡️

⚔️ Surrender of Egypt

Negotiations Negotiations with Amr ibn al-As

🏛️ Imperial Displeasure

Theological Stance and Condemnation ✝️

💡 Monothelitism

📜 The "Satisfactio"

🔥 Heresy Accusations

Correspondence and Influence ✉️

📝 Letters to Sergius

💌 Interaction with Muhammad

Enduring Legacy ⏳

😔 Personal Decline

⚖️ Historical Judgment

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Cyrus of Alexandria: An Overview

Dual Authority

Historical Context

Key Actions and Controversies

Early Life and Ascendancy

Caucasian Origins

Bishop of Phasis

Theological Compromise

Patriarchal Tenure and Persecution

The Pact of Union

Persecution of Copts

Theological Opposition

Prefect of Egypt and the Arab Conquest

Surrender of Egypt

Negotiations with Amr ibn al-As

Imperial Displeasure

Theological Stance and Condemnation

Monothelitism

The "Satisfactio"

Heresy Accusations

Correspondence and Influence

Letters to Sergius

Interaction with Muhammad

Enduring Legacy

Personal Decline

Historical Judgment

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice