Text of a Coptic Monastic Discourse On Love and Self-Control, The
Book Description
This scholarly work presents a fascinating window into the spiritual wisdom of early Christian monasticism through the careful examination of an ancient Coptic text focused on love and self-control. Carolyn Schneider offers readers access to a discourse that likely originated within the influential Pachomian monastic community of fourth-century Egypt, providing insights into the spiritual practices and teachings that shaped early Christian contemplative life.
The book traces the remarkable journey of this ancient text across centuries, from its possible origins in the Pachomian monasteries through its preservation in medieval manuscripts. Schneider explores the complex questions surrounding the discourse's authorship, examining potential connections to Saint Athanasius while investigating its roots within the Pachomian tradition and figures like Horsiesios.
Through meticulous textual analysis, readers discover how this spiritual teaching on love and self-control continued to influence Christian communities well beyond its original context. The work illuminates how ancient wisdom texts traveled through time, being copied, preserved, and reinterpreted by successive generations of spiritual seekers.
For contemporary readers interested in the foundations of Christian spirituality and the development of monastic wisdom, this book offers valuable insights into how early communities understood the cultivation of love and the practice of self-discipline as essential elements of spiritual growth. The scholarly approach makes accessible the rich heritage of contemplative teaching that continues to resonate with modern spiritual practice.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 238 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Self-control
- ✓ Explore Textual Criticism
- ✓ Explore Athanasius, saint, patriarch of alexandria, -373
- ✓ Understand the nature of love
- ✓ Explore On love and self-control
- ✓ Explore Christianity
- ✓ Explore Coptic monasticism and religious orders
