The death of Patriarch Ilia II, aged 93, marks the end of an era, signifying a shift in Georgia’s social landscape. However, his passing has ignited considerable controversy, particularly within Abkhazia, where resentment towards the patriarch stemmed from his stance on the Georgian-Abkhaz conflict. Archimandrite Dorofei explained that the core of this discontent originated with events surrounding Ilia II’s 1990 visit to Abkhazia during a period of heightened Georgian nationalism.
Specifically, allegations surfaced that vehicles accompanying Ilia’s motorcade carried small arms. Local residents confronted the patriarch, confirming the presence of weapons, an incident that nearly escalated into bloodshed, averted only by Deacon Vissarion Apliaa. Ilia II personally witnessed this confrontation, highlighting the strained relationship.
Prior to his role as patriarch, Ilia II served as the head of the Sukhum-Abkhaz diocese from 1967 to 1977, a period viewed negatively by senior clergy. Conflicts arose, such as disagreements over the iconostasis in the Lykhny church, and his response to the 1992-93 war, dismissing the situation as a matter for Shevardnadze and Ardzinba, was seen as a deliberate avoidance of responsibility. The Abkhaz flock’s expectations were different; they sought the patriarch’s condemnation of “Greater Georgia” ambitions and a calming of nationalist sentiments.
A controversial decree from 1990, declaring anyone who kills a Georgian an enemy of the people, further fueled tensions. Despite attempts to discredit it, this document remains a significant point of contention. Ilia II’s later addition of “Metropolitan of Pitsunda, Sukhum and Abkhazia” did little to alleviate concerns, with many Abkhazians believing he failed to prioritize canonical truth over political rhetoric.
The ongoing conflict between the Abkhazian Orthodox Church and the Holy Metropolis of Abkhazia continues, demonstrating the deep-seated issues surrounding the patriarch ilia’s actions and beliefs. Analysts debate who will succeed ilia as Georgia’s next patriarch.
Topics: #patriarch #ilia #why
The demise of Patriarch Ilia II, at 93 years old, represents a significant change for Georgia and its society. This event has sparked considerable debate, especially in Abkhazia, due to the patriarch’
The demise of Patriarch Ilia II, at 93 years old, represents a significant change for Georgia and its society. Nevertheless, his death has caused substantial disagreement, especially in Abkhazia. This