Why did Origen of Alexandria castrate himself? Discover how a radical interpretation of Matthew 19:12 led to this act, what it reveals about early Christian asceticism, and how the modern Church can learn from both his zeal and his error.
INTRODUCTION:
Among the strangest and most sobering stories from the early Church is this:
Origen of Alexandria—scholar, theologian, and church father—castrated himself as a young man.
He did it based on a radical reading of a single verse in the Gospel of Matthew:
“There are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.” —Matthew 19:12 (ESV)
This was not a rumor or legend. Church historians like Eusebius of Caesarea (in Ecclesiastical History, Book 6) confirm it. Origen’s act was real, intentional, and deeply sincere—but also deeply tragic.
Let’s explore:
- What led Origen to do this,
- What the verse really meant,
- Why he later regretted it, and
- What the Church today can learn about interpretation, zeal, and discipline.
1. ORIGEN’S ZEAL: PURITY IN A PAGAN WORLD
Origen lived during a time (late 2nd and early 3rd century) when:
- Christian teachers were surrounded by pagan immorality,
- Martyrdom was glorified,
- Asceticism (self-denial) was admired as the highest form of discipleship.
Origen was young, brilliant, and obsessed with holiness.
To avoid any sexual scandal as he taught female catechumens and served widows, he took Jesus’ words literally—and castrated himself.
He did this:
- As an act of self-mastery,
- To ensure chastity,
- And to fully consecrate his life to God.
In his mind, he was following Christ’s call with extreme devotion.
2. THE MISINTERPRETATION OF MATTHEW 19:12
Let’s read the full verse in context:
“For there are eunuchs who were born that way from their mother’s womb; and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men; and there are also eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it.” —Matthew 19:12
Jesus here is responding to a question about marriage and celibacy (see verses 10–11).
But does He mean physical castration?
Absolutely not. In the Jewish context, a "eunuch" could also mean:
- Someone who voluntarily abstains from marriage and sex,
- A man dedicated solely to spiritual service, not family or worldly ties.
In fact, physical mutilation was explicitly forbidden under Jewish law (Deuteronomy 23:1). And nowhere in Jesus’ teaching or the New Testament do the apostles advocate self-harm for holiness.
Jesus was speaking figuratively, not literally.
3. WHY ORIGEN REGRETTED IT
Although Origen initially believed he had acted in obedience, he later came to regret this action.
Why?
A. The Church Condemned It
Many bishops, including his own, disapproved. Some later refused to ordain Origen to priesthood because he had mutilated himself.
B. He Misunderstood the Text
As Origen matured in theology, he realized that Scripture often uses symbolic language—and that he had misread Jesus’ intent.
He would go on to write powerful works on biblical interpretation, urging others to seek deeper meaning, not surface literalism.
C. The Consequences Were Irreversible
Origen’s zeal, though sincere, led to irreparable harm—not just to his body, but to his ministry credibility and influence.
4. LESSONS FOR THE MODERN CHURCH
A. Zeal Without Understanding Can Be Dangerous
Paul warned about this in Romans 10:2:
“They have a zeal for God, but not according to knowledge.”
Origen’s passion was genuine. But passion must be governed by wisdom and proper exegesis.
Don’t just read the Bible—study it, in context, with humility.
B. Not Every Command is Literal—Learn to Discern
The Bible includes figurative, symbolic, and poetic language. Not every command is meant to be acted on physically.
- “Cut off your hand” (Mark 9:43) is about radical repentance, not surgery.
- “Hate your father and mother” (Luke 14:26) means Christ must be first, not family hatred.
- “Make yourself a eunuch” means total devotion, not self-mutilation.
Understanding the genre, audience, and purpose of Scripture is crucial for healthy interpretation.
C. Asceticism Is Not the Goal—Holiness Is
The Church has often honored ascetics—but self-denial is not the destination, just a means to godliness.
Paul says:
“Physical discipline is of some value, but godliness is valuable in every way.” —1 Timothy 4:8
We must pursue purity of heart, not just punishment of the body.
Origen’s act of self-castration was not done in rebellion or perversion—it was done in radical pursuit of holiness.
But it was based on a misreading of Scripture, and it left a scar on both his life and his legacy.
Let the Church today be warned:
- Zeal must be anchored in truth.
- Obedience must be shaped by wisdom.
- Holiness must be inward first, not just outward sacrifice.
“For God desires mercy, not sacrifice.” —Matthew 9:13
The same Jesus who calls for eunuchs for the Kingdom also says:
“Come to Me, all you who are weary… and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28)
Holiness is not found in harming ourselves—but in surrendering to Him fully.
Read more on Origen
Check out Origen’s Apokatastasis
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