DUMITRU STĂNILOAE: LEGACY AND POLITICAL THOUGHT

Abstract

This article examines the theological legacy and political thought of Dumitru Stăniloae (1903–1993) within the transformative context
of the Romanian Church and state in the twentieth century. Against the backdrop of his canonization in 2024 and the ensuing debates, it begins with a concise overview of Stăniloae’s life and major works.
From the perspective of political theology, the study demonstrates that Stăniloae’s ideas developed in dialogue with the “Greater Romania” project, the Church’s national role, and prevailing anti-communist sentiments. The author distinguishes between forms of nationalism rooted in “hatred” and those inspired by “love,” interpreting the state as an instrument for restraining evil and the Church as the sphere of grace and love. Particular attention is devoted to the intellectual influence of Nichifor Crainic, Stăniloae’s vision of Balkan cooperation and pan-Orthodox unity, his stance on the Uniate question, and his wartime writings during the Second World War. The article concludes by calling for an objective and critical reassessment of Stăniloae’s thought in order to clarify both the historical-theological significance and the more controversial dimensions of his legacy.