Monotheism between pagans and Christians in late antiquity
Book Description
In the transformative fourth century, a profound spiritual revolution unfolded across the Mediterranean world as Christianity emerged from the shadows to claim imperial favor under Constantine. This scholarly exploration reveals how the conventional narrative of monotheism triumphing over polytheism obscures a far more complex religious landscape.
Stephen Mitchell guides readers through the intricate theological debates that shaped this pivotal era, examining how both Christian and pagan thinkers grappled with fundamental questions about the nature of divine worship and spiritual authority. Rather than presenting a simple story of religious conquest, this work illuminates the surprising similarities between competing faith traditions that were deliberately obscured by the heated polemics of the time.
Through careful analysis of key figures like Porphyry, Augustine, and Themistius, along with Latin verse inscriptions and diverse theological writings, the book demonstrates how different religious communities conceived of monotheism in remarkably varied ways. At the heart of these ancient controversies lay a question that continues to resonate today: who possesses the right to worship, and how should that worship be conducted?
For contemporary spiritual seekers interested in understanding how religious boundaries are constructed and contested, this examination of late antiquity offers valuable insights into the complex dynamics between competing spiritual worldviews. The work reveals how theological differences often masked deeper questions about religious identity, community, and the nature of authentic spiritual practice.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~6 hours)
📄 Length: 225 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Strengthen your faith journey
- ✓ Explore Monotheism
- ✓ Explore Christianity and other religions
- ✓ Explore Theology
- ✓ Explore Heidentum
- ✓ Explore 11.07 relations between religions
- ✓ Explore 11.51 early Christianity
- ✓ Explore Frühchristentum
