Jesus, Prophet of Islam - The Islamic Bulletin

Early Unitarians in Christianity 97

Eusebius of Nicomedia was the most resolute supporter of Ar­
ius, whose other followers called Eusebius 'the great'. Miracles were
attributed to him. Originally the bishop of Beyruth, he was later
transferred to Nicomedia, the capital of the Eastern Empire. He
had been a good friend of the Emperor's brother-in-law and rival,
Licinus, and thus exercised an influence on Constantina, the sister
of Constantine. Licinus had recently fought the Emperor and lost
his IHe. After the death of her husband, Constantina went to stay
in the Imperial Palace. Thus, through her and through his own dis­
tantrelationshipwiththe Imperial farnily, Eusebiuskepta hold on
the court which he never lost. It was to be through his influence
that the Emperor eventually accepted Christianity in the Church
of Arius, and finally died a believer in the Divine Unity.

Athanasius

Athanasius was a young and fiery supporter of the beliefs and con­

cepts which eventually led to the formation what became known

as the Trinitarian school of theology. Alexander, who was growing

old, and who had been routed so many times before by Arius, de­

cided to send Athanasius to Nicea as his representative, instead of

going there himself.

Hosius

Hosius was the Chief Councillor of the Emperor. His importance

lay in the fact that he represented the Pauline Church in the West

where the Emperor's influence was weakest. Hosius was recog­

nised as a profound scholar of theology in his own right.ln history

he is known as the venerable old man who was called 'holy' by

Athanasius. His high charaeter was known to everyone. His im­

portance had increased due to his intimacy with the Emperor.

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Apart from thèse few leamed men, the Council was composed of

men with a reputation of piety, but not of learning, men whose

hearts were pure, but whose tongues were not always articulate:

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