Introduction
The Byzantine Empire, also known as the Eastern Roman Empire, was one of the most powerful and enduring empires in history. Its rich heritage, culture, and religion were deeply intertwined with its political and military might. However, the longstanding feud between the Roman Catholic Church and the Eastern Greek Orthodox Church played a significant role in weakening the Byzantine Empire, ultimately leading to its conquest by the Muslim Turks. The roots of the downfall were laid around the birth of Christ when the Roman Empire changed from a Republic to being ruled by emperors. Some emperors were good and capable, but many were tyrants who ruled by decree. Emperors were the rulers, the law and the judges: the worst form of government possible. We have some fine examples today: North Korea, Russia with Putin, the Chinese tyrants, and many other autocrats in the world.
The Great Schism
The schism between the Roman Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church, known as the Great Schism, occurred in 1054 AD. This division was the result of centuries of political, cultural, and theological differences between the Eastern and Western branches of Christianity. The primary issues included the authority of the Pope, the use of unleavened bread in the Eucharist, and the inclusion of the Filioque clause in the Nicene Creed, which states that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son.
The split was marked by mutual excommunications and a breakdown in relations, leading to the formation of two distinct Christian traditions. The Roman Catholic Church, centered in Rome, held sway over Western Europe, while the Orthodox Church, centered in Constantinople, dominated the Eastern regions. Today it is estimated that there are over 45,000 Christian denominations. This is what happens when we take our eye off the ball and fight about inane issues, when we agree on the major theological points such as the divinity of Christ, the truth of the Bible, the resurrection and forgiveness of sins. In my experience, I find that many disagreements are really misunderstanding of the issue, such as faith alone, the resurrection and redemption. You will find differences in any one denomination. If you ask five Catholics a theological question you will get six answers; the same in Protestant circles. This, in turn, leads to making your opponent an enemy and refusing to cooperate in anything.
The Impact on the Byzantine Empire
The schism had profound consequences for the Byzantine Empire. The division weakened the unity of Christendom, making it more difficult for the empire to rally support from Western Europe in times of crisis. The mistrust and animosity between the two branches of Christianity meant that alliances were fragile and often short-lived.
The Crusades
The Crusades, a series of religious wars initiated by the Roman Catholic Church, further exacerbated the tensions between East and West. While ostensibly aimed at reclaiming the Holy Land from Muslim control, the Crusades had a significant impact on the Byzantine Empire. The Fourth Crusade, in particular, was disastrous for Byzantium. In 1204, Crusaders sacked the capital of eastern Christianity,Constantinople, causing immense destruction and further weakening the empire. The establishment of the Latin Empire in Constantinople led to a period of fragmentation and instability. The Crusades did more damage to their fellow Christians than to their Muslim enemies. Another example of the rot of division.
Political and Military Weakness
The internal divisions and external threats left the Byzantine Empire vulnerable. The constant warfare and the strain of defending its territories against both Western and Eastern adversaries took a toll on the empire's resources and stability. The weakening of central authority and the loss of key territories further diminished the empire's ability to resist invasions.
The Rise of the Ottoman Turks
The Ottoman Turks, a Muslim dynasty, began their rise to power in the late 13th century. They gradually expanded their territory, encroaching on Byzantine lands. The weakened state of the Byzantine Empire made it an easy target for conquest. In 1453, the Ottomans, led by Sultan Mehmed II, captured Constantinople, marking the end of the Byzantine Empire. The fall of Constantinople was a pivotal event in world history, signifying the shift of power from the Christian Byzantine Empire to the Muslim Ottoman Empire.
Conclusion
The schism between the Roman Catholic Church and the Orthodox Church was a significant factor in the decline of the Byzantine Empire. The division weakened the unity of Christendom, undermined potential alliances, and contributed to the empire's vulnerability to external threats. The rise of the Ottoman Turks and their eventual conquest of Constantinople marked the end of the Byzantine Empire, a testament to the profound and lasting impact of the Great Schism on the course of history.
Recommended Reading:
1. Lost to the West, Lars Brownworth, Crown Publishers, 2009, Brownworth has a terrific podcast on this subject called: 12 Byzantine Rulers.
2. The Lost World of Byzantium, Jonathan Harris, Yale University Press, 2015.
