How Oxford Changed My Faith | Theology Student Interview

What is it really like to study theology at Oxford University, and can it deepen your Christian faith, or shake it? Tuppy Morrissey sits down with Alina Khokhlova, an Oxford theologian who specialised in the ancient Syriac language (a branch of Aramaic language closely related to the tongue spoken by early Eastern Christians), to explore what studying theology formally can offer believers today.Alina shares her journey to Oxford, where she became one of the only students in a decade to pursue the Syriac pathway — reading rare late antique theological texts in their original language with almost no set curriculum. They discuss what a typical week studying theology at Oxford looks like, how to navigate the challenges of higher biblical criticism, and why reading Scripture in ancient languages can become a surprisingly prayerful and meditative practice.The conversation also turns to icons — what they are, how to read their symbolism, and why they matter for Christians of every tradition — as well as the rich church life Oxford offers, from Anglo-Catholic chapels to Orthodox communities that are quietly booming with converts.What we cover:Why study theology formally — and is it for everyone?Studying the Syriac language and Eastern Christianity at OxfordWhat a typical Oxford theology tutorial week looks likeBiblical Hebrew, Koine Greek, and the value of ancient languagesHigher criticism and its challenges for Christian faithHow theology can deepen — not undermine — beliefIcons as visual theology: symbolism, veneration, and the IncarnationThe Orthodox, Catholic, and Anglican church scene in OxfordEvagrius of Pontus: "The one who prays is a theologian"0:00 – Opening0:44 – Introduction1:34 – Why study theology formally?2:17 – Backgrounds & paths to Oxford8:32 – What is a typical week at Oxford?9:55 – Studying ancient languages14:02 – Faith & textual criticism at Oxford18:29 – How theology deepened faith24:15 – Churches in Oxford29:44 – Orthodox Christianity in Oxford33:12 – Icons & religious art44:04 – Archaeology & material religion46:01 – Key lessons from Oxford48:25 – Final thoughts & encouragementFor Alina's videos on Icons: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLsSDcjFojHAZl56RVCMpTPVSctu1HKdZfTry the FaithWave app: https://www.faithwave.app/#aramaic #AramaicLanguage #oxforduniversity #theology #christianpodcast #syriac #christianity #christianfaith