ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to offer a general view of some main aspects of Orthodox canon law, trying to point out principles that could be common with other Christian legal traditions. It is presented in five sections, beginning with a brief introduction to the subject, mentioning that the polycentric organisation of the different autocephalous churches reflects an ecclesiological diversity as well as a legal polymorphy. The discussion proceeds to highlight the theological foundations and the spiritual dimension of the law, with reference to oikonomia and the medicinal character of the disciplinary system. Section two deals with the main legal sources, whilst sections three and four expose the struggle between legal diversity and canonical unity as well as some organisation and administration issues. Throughout the text, common principles of law emerge. The last section includes some comments and considerations on the project associated with the emerging category of ‘juridical ecumenism’.
