Remedy for Greek Maladies

Theodoret of Cyrrhus, a Syrian theologian-bishop of the 5th century, authored Therapeutikē (The Cure for Pagan Evils). This work is a treatise on apologetics, aiming to systematically explain the Christian faith and counter pagan beliefs. Influenced by the Antiochian school of biblical interpretation, Theodoret emphasized a historico-critical approach, differing from the allegorical methods of Alexandrian theology. His writings contributed to moderating 5th-century Christological disputes and developing Christian theological vocabulary. While ancient civilizations like the Chinese, Hindu, and Mediterranean cultures had early records of medicinal preparations, Theodoret's work focused on theological and doctrinal matters rather than physical remedies.12