An Examination of an Eschatological Christian Leader: Last Emperor Topos in Oracula Attributed to Byzantine Emperor Leo VI. (886-912)/ Hıristiyan Bir Eskatolojik Lider İncelemesi: Bizans İmparatoru VI. Leon'a (886-912) Atfedilen Oracula'da Son İmparator Toposu

Abstract

In Christian eschatology, the leadership typology is not limited solely to the figure of the Messiah. This typology has been expanded, particularly with figures such as the Last Emperor. Oracula, attributed to Byzantine Emperor Leo VI (886-912), presents this emperor as a divinely chosen leader, drawing from Biblical and imperial archetypes. His sacred lineage and role in restoring order are emphasized, reinforcing the connection between imperial power and divine will. This article focuses on the prophesied details regarding the last emperor’s genealogy, physical characteristics, and descent to earth. The study argues that this myth was constructed to serve Byzantine political theology during times of crisis, stabilizing and legitimizing imperial authority through eschatological themes that resonated with the religious and political concerns of Byzantine society. Thus, a detailed analysis of one of the key figures in Christian eschatology has been undertaken through the method of close reading, aiming to fill one of the significant gaps in the literature.

Keywords

• christian eschatology
• prophecy
• political theology
• oracula
• leo vi