What has Athens to do with Jerusalem?
Book Description
The age-old tension between faith and reason continues to shape our world, from classroom debates over evolution to personal struggles with reconciling spiritual beliefs and scientific understanding. Jaroslav Jan Pelikan offers readers a profound exploration of this enduring dialogue by examining its historical roots in two foundational texts that have influenced Western thought for over two millennia.
At the heart of this scholarly investigation lies the fascinating counterpoint between Plato's Timaeus, representing the philosophical tradition of Athens, and the Book of Genesis, embodying the spiritual wisdom of Jerusalem. Pelikan traces how these two monumental works have shaped discussions about the origins of the universe and humanity's place within it.
The author guides readers through pivotal moments in intellectual history, beginning with classical Rome and moving through three crucial case studies. These include the Jewish philosophical theology that emerged in Alexandria, the Christian thought that flourished in Constantinople, and the intellectual foundations that shaped the Western Middle Ages through Catholic Rome, where Plato's Timaeus remained the primary Platonic text in circulation.
Through careful examination of influential thinkers including the Three Cappadocians, Ambrose, Augustine, and Boethius, Pelikan reveals how these early Christian theologians grappled with fundamental questions that continue to resonate today. This work illuminates the ongoing conversation between philosophical inquiry and religious faith, offering valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand the complex relationship between spiritual wisdom and rational thought.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Short (< 200 pages) (~4 hours)
📄 Length: 139 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore History of doctrines
- ✓ Study Bible from spiritual perspective
- ✓ Explore Creation
- ✓ Explore Creation, biblical teaching
- ✓ Explore Biblical teaching
- ✓ Explore Bible
- ✓ Explore Lucretius carus, titus
- ✓ Explore Philosophical theology
