Ephesus (Council of)

The Council of Ephesus was a significant gathering of Christian leaders in 431 CE, called to address key theological disputes, particularly the nature of Christ and the role of Mary. It affirmed that Jesus Christ is both fully God and fully human and declared Mary as Theotokos, meaning "God-bearer," emphasizing her role as the mother of Jesus' divine nature. The council helped define orthodox Christian beliefs and clarified doctrine, reducing divisions within the early church. It played a crucial role in shaping Christianity's development and strengthening unified doctrines across Christian communities.