Complete Works of Origen (Annotated) Volume 1 of 2

This essential annotated edition presents the first volume of the collected works of Origen of Alexandria, the man often called the “Father of Christian Theology.” Writing in the third century, Origen was the first to attempt a systematic and philosophical explanation of the entire Christian worldview. This volume brings together his foundational theological manual, his monumental defense of the faith against pagan intellectuals, and his personal correspondence. Whether exploring the mysteries of the cosmos or engaging in a line-by-line refutation of the critics of the Gospel, Origen’s brilliance and devotion shine through every page. This collection is an indispensable resource for anyone seeking to understand the intellectual roots of the Trinity, the interpretation of Scripture, and the birth of Christian scholarship.Table of ContentsBiographical Introduction: Origen and Origenism (Catholic Encyclopedia 1913)Origen De Principiis (On First Principles): The first systematic manual of Christian theology, exploring God, the world, and the soul.The Letters of Origen: Personal and scholarly correspondence, including his famous letters to Africanus and Gregory Thaumaturgus.Origen Against Celsus (Contra Celsum): The greatest apologetic work of antiquity, defending Christianity against sophisticated pagan attacks.About Origen of AlexandriaOrigen (c. 184–253 AD) was the most prolific and influential teacher of the early Church. Born in Alexandria to a martyr father, he spent his life in a relentless pursuit of divine truth, reportedly authoring thousands of works. He was a pioneer of the allegorical method of biblical interpretation and the first to produce a critical edition of the Old Testament. Origen’s life was defined by extreme asceticism and an unwavering commitment to the Church; he survived brutal torture during the Decian persecution, dying shortly thereafter from his injuries. While some of his speculative ideas later became the subject of intense debate, his influence on the Great Ecumenical Councils and the development of Christian mysticism is immeasurable. He remains a titan of history—a man who sought to harmonize the highest reaches of human reason with the revelation of the Word. Read more