Showing results by author "Saint Augustine of Hippo" in All Categories

Confessions (Latin: Confessiones) is the name of an autobiographical work, consisting of 13 books, by St. Augustine of Hippo, written between AD 397 and AD 398. Modern English translations of it are sometimes published under the title The Confessions of St. Augustine in order to distinguish the book from other books with similar titles, such as Jean-Jacques Rousseau's Confessions. (Summary by Wikipedia)

Saint Augustine's De Magistro, Englished here under the title of "The Philosophy of Teaching or a Study in the Symbolism of Language", was written about A.D. 389, probably during the third year after his conversion. He was baptized by Saint Ambrose in Milan at Easter time, 387.The purpose of the translation ismainly to place within the reach of English readers, students and teachers some tangible evidence of facts in the lives of Christian thinkers, to show the quality of their thought, their methods of teaching, their contribution to the education and the learning of their time. A chief aim ...

The Confessions outlines Augustine's sinful youth and his conversion to Christianity. It is widely seen as the first Western autobiography ever written, and was an influential model for Christian writers throughout the following 1,000 years, through the Middle Ages. It is not a complete autobiography, as it was written in his early 40s, and he lived long afterwards, producing another important work (City of God). It does, nonetheless, provide an unbroken record of his development of thought and is the most complete record of any single person from the 4th and 5th centuries. It is a significant...

The Book of Psalms, often referred to as the Psalms or the Psalter, is a revered collection divided into five distinct sections, each concluding with a doxology. The term comes from the Greek word ψαλμοί (psalmoi), which means instrumental music and extends to the words accompanying the music. Traditionally attributed to King David, these poetic verses have long been central to the prayers and worship of the Christian church, particularly among monks who would chant through the Psalms in a week-long cycle. While many commentaries exist, few are as renowned and widely embraced as that of ...

In On Lying, I explore the complex nature of deception and the vital importance of truthfulness. While the ideas presented may initially seem challenging, they offer profound insights that sharpen the mind and enrich moral understanding. This work, which I contemplated leaving unpublished due to its intricate nature, ultimately aims to inspire a deeper appreciation for honesty in our speech and interactions. - Summary by Augustine

In the wake of the devastating sack of Rome by the Goths under King Alaric, those who worshipped false gods began to blame the Christian faith for this calamity, launching a fierce wave of blasphemy against the true God. This sparked Augustines fervor to defend the City of God from the slanders and distortions of its adversaries. Over many years, he meticulously crafted this monumental work, comprising twenty-two books. The first five respond to those who claim that the prosperity of Rome was tied to its polytheistic traditions, while the next five address those who acknowledge the ...

Immerse yourself in these captivating sermons that explore the profound wisdom of the Psalms attributed to the Holy Prophet and King David. Rich in poetic beauty, these reflections offer inspiration and devotion, making them perfect for uplifting listening. - Summary by The Reader

In On Grace and Free Will, Augustine delves into the profound debate surrounding the interplay of divine grace and human freedom. He addresses those who assert that affirming Gods grace undermines the liberty of the will, countering their claims that grace is merely a reward for personal merit. Written for the monks of Adrumetum, where this controversy first ignited, Augustines work invites readers to explore the delicate balance between grace and free will, beginning with a compelling examination of those who advocate for human autonomy.

In response to Pollentiuss inquiry about separation due to adultery, St. Augustine composed the thought-provoking work On Adulterous Marriages. Pollentius argued that a wife could remarry if she left her husband for his infidelity, interpreting St. Pauls teachings as applicable only to those who marry for reasons beyond adultery. St. Augustine counters this view, asserting that the prohibition applies to women who depart for this very cause. Furthermore, Pollentius claimed that believers in a marriage could not abandon their unbelieving partners, while St. Augustine clarifies that, although ...

Immerse yourself in the beauty of the Psalms with these profound sermons on the poetic works of the Holy Prophet and King David. Perfect for moments of inspiration and devotion, this final volume completes a six-part series that celebrates the timeless wisdom and artistry found within these sacred texts. - Summary by The Reader

In this thought-provoking exploration, the doctrine of predestination and divine grace is robustly defended against the semi-Pelagian viewpoint—those who, while not fully embracing Pelagianism, assert that the initiation of salvation and faith originates from human effort. Augustine argues that both the inception and growth of faith are gifts from God. He candidly acknowledges his earlier misconceptions in some of his minor works prior to becoming bishop, highlighting a pivotal shift in his understanding, largely influenced by the phrase, but what have you that you have not received? This ...

De doctrina Christiana, or On Christian Doctrine, is a celebrated work by Augustine of Hippo, consisting of four insightful books that serve as a vital guide for interpreting and teaching the Scriptures. In the first three books, published in 397, Augustine details the essential roles of Christian teachers and preachers uncovering the truth within the Scriptures, sharing that truth with others, and defending it against challenges. The later sections of book three and the entirety of book four, believed to have been added around 426, delve into the intriguing connection between Christianity and...

In the wake of the Gothic siege and sack of Rome, the pagans sought to blame the calamity on Christianity, launching a fierce campaign against the true God with unprecedented vitriol. This backlash ignited my passion for defending the faith and articulating the essence of the City of God in response to these misrepresentations. Over several years, I meticulously crafted this monumental work, culminating in twenty-two books. The initial five books dismantle the notion that polytheistic worship is essential for earthly prosperity, countering the belief that such tragedies stem from its rejection...

In his work Retractions, St. Augustine reflects on the significance of virginity, stating, After I had written on the Good of Marriage, it was anticipated that I would address the topic of Holy Virginity. I did not hesitate to explore this divine gift—its immense value and the humility required to uphold it—in a single volume. This book begins, and delves into the profound insights he offers.

After the storming and the sack of Rome by the Goths under their king, Alaric, the worshippers of false gods or heathen, as we call them, tried to prove that this calamity was due to the Christian religion, and began more fiercely and bitterly than ever to blaspheme the true God. This it was that kindled my zeal for the House of God, and induced me to defend the City of God against the calumny and misrepresentations of her foes. After many serious interruptions this great undertaking, which was extended over many years, was at length finished in twenty-two books. Of these, the first five are ...

In On the Spirit and the Letter, St. Augustine responds to Tribune Marcellinus, who expressed surprise at the claim that man could live sinlessly with divine assistance. Marcellinus questioned how something could be deemed possible if there are no examples to prove it. Augustine passionately defends the concept of grace, illustrating that while the law is good and holy, it alone cannot save us; it often amplifies our guilt when we know our duties but lack the ability to fulfill them. He emphasizes the necessity of the Spirit’s support, which fills our hearts with grace, enabling us to love ...

Join us for a series of captivating sermons inspired by the profound Psalms of the Holy Prophet and King David. These reflections are not only enlightening but also resonate with the beauty and depth of the Psalms, making them perfect for moments of inspiration and devotion. - Summary by The Reader

In this engaging exploration of the First Epistle of John, we delve into the profound theme of love that underpins the Apostles message. While some have deemed the Epistle a mere collection of fragmented thoughts, Augustines insightful commentary reveals a cohesive plan centered around the essence and breadth of charity. Through his compelling arguments and vivid illustrations, Augustine demonstrates that the Apostles intention is to emphasize love as the dominant force throughout the text. Join us as we uncover the rich layers of meaning in this timeless work.

Dive into these inspiring sermons that illuminate the profound wisdom of the Psalms penned by the Holy Prophet and King David. Crafted with a poetic touch, these reflections are perfect for anyone seeking motivation and spiritual growth. - Summary by The Reader

In this insightful treatise, we delve into the historical context of the heresy of Jovinian, a monk who challenged established views on marriage and virginity in the early Church. Augustine addresses these controversies head-on, emphasizing the value of marriage while acknowledging the esteemed status of virginity. Written around A.D. 401, this work outlines the essential elements of marriage faithfulness, offspring, and the sacred nature of the union. Augustine’s reflections serve as a guide, balancing the beauty and responsibilities of marriage against the backdrop of early Christian ...