Antonio Orbe

Noël Alexandre, also known by his Latin name Natalis Alexander, was a significant French theologian and ecclesiastical historian born in Rouen in 1639. He joined the Dominican order in 1654 and later became a professor of philosophy at the Couvent des Jacobins in Paris. His academic success led him to teach at the Sorbonne and become a tutor to Jean-Baptiste Colbert's son.

Alexandre's scholarly contributions included a major work on ecclesiastical history and a pioneering exploration of comparative religion, particularly concerning Chinese ceremonies in relation to Greco-Roman idolatry. He was also involved in theological disputes, notably defending the Dominican position in the "Querelle des rites" regarding Confucianism. Despite facing political and religious opposition, including the suppression of his pension and banishment for supporting Jansenist views, he continued his literary work until his death in Paris in 1724. His writings remain valued by students of ecclesiastical studies.

Born in Rouen, France, Noël Alexandre entered the Dominican order in 1654. After his ordination, he quickly rose to prominence, becoming a professor of philosophy at the Couvent des Jacobins in Paris. His lectures gained significant attention, leading to an appointment as tutor to the son of Jean-Baptiste Colbert. Alexandre earned a Doctor of Divinity from the Sorbonne in 1675 and spent twelve years lecturing on philosophy, theology, and ecclesiastical law within his order. He also preached before King Louis XIV, who awarded him a pension.

Alexandre's work touched upon controversial theological and cultural issues. In 1700, he published "Conformité des cérémonies chinoises avec l'idolâtrie grecque et romaine" and "Lettres sur les cérémonies de la Chine." These works engaged with the "Querelle des rites," a dispute concerning the integration of Confucian practices by missionaries in China, where Alexandre defended the Dominican stance against the Jesuits. His writings in this area are considered pioneering in the study of comparative religion. However, his adherence to Jansenist ideas and opposition to the papal bull "Unigenitus" led to his banishment and the revocation of his pension.

Alexandre's most recognized work is his "Selecta historiae ecclesiasticae capita," a multi-volume history of the Church published between 1676 and 1686. This significant contribution to ecclesiastical history was placed on the Index by Pope Innocent XI due to its defense of Gallicanism. He also authored "Selecta historiae Veteris Testamenti capita," a six-volume history of the Old Testament. His "Theologia dogmatica et moralis" is considered a principal theological contribution, reflecting his Thomist leanings. Despite facing censure and personal hardship, his numerous writings were and continue to be highly regarded by scholars in ecclesiastical studies.