Augustinianism

Book Description

Augustine of Hippo's spiritual insights didn't end with his own writings. They sparked a living tradition that continued to evolve and deepen through the centuries, shaping how countless seekers understood the Christian path. This scholarly exploration reveals how Augustine's profound teachings on faith, grace, and the soul's journey toward God were transformed and enriched by later spiritual masters.

John D. Green traces the remarkable evolution of Augustinian thought as it passed through the hands of three pivotal figures in medieval spirituality. Each master brought their own unique perspective to Augustine's foundational insights. St. Gregory the Great approached Augustine's wisdom through the lens of pastoral care, showing how these teachings could guide souls in practical spiritual direction. William of St. Thierry transformed Augustine's concepts into mystical understanding, revealing deeper contemplative dimensions. Walter Hilton centered his interpretation around Christ himself, creating a distinctly Christ-focused approach to Augustine's spiritual framework.

Rather than treating Augustinianism as a fixed doctrine, Green presents it as a dynamic symbol that continues gathering new meaning across time. This process of spiritual transformation demonstrates how authentic wisdom adapts and grows while maintaining its essential truth. For readers interested in how spiritual traditions develop and influence one another, this study offers valuable insights into the living nature of Christian contemplative thought and its ongoing relevance for contemporary seekers.