An Exposition of the Orthodox Faith 49

1 BOOK III — CHAPTER 5: Concerning the number of the Natures.

2 In the case, therefore, of the Godhead we confess that there is but one nature, but hold that there are three subsistences actually existing, and recognise the difference of the subsistences only in the three properties of independence of cause and Fatherhood, of dependence on cause and Sonship, of dependence on cause and procession. And we know further that these are indivisible and inseparable from each other and united into one, and interpenetrating one another without confusion.

3 In the very same way, in the case of the divine and ineffable dispensation, I mean the Incarnation of the One God the Word of the Holy Trinity, and our Lord Jesus Christ, we confess that there are two natures, one divine and one human, joined together with one another and united in subsistence, so that one compound subsistence is formed out of the two natures: but we hold that the two natures are still preserved, even after the union, in the one compound subsistence, and that these exist in reality and have their natural properties; for they are united without confusion, and are distinguished and enumerated without being separable.

4 For Christ, indeed, is one, perfect both in divinity and in humanity. For it is not the nature of number to cause separation or unity, but its nature is to indicate the quantity of what is enumerated, whether these are united or separated. So, then, just as even though the three subsistences of the Godhead are united with each other, we cannot speak of them as one subsistence, so also we cannot speak of the two natures of Christ as one nature, united though they are in subsistence, because we should then confuse and do away with and reduce to nothing the difference between the two natures.