The Desert Fathers: Sayings of the Early Christian Monks
(Paperback)
Publishing Details
The Desert Fathers: Sayings of the Early Christian Monks
By (Author) Benedicta Ward
Translated by Benedicta Ward
Penguin Books Ltd
Penguin Classics
19th June 2003
27th March 2003
United Kingdom
Classifications
General
Non Fiction
248.47
Physical Properties
Paperback
240
Width 129mm, Height 198mm, Spine 14mm
182g
Description
These were the first Christian monks living in solitude in the deserts of Egypt, Palestine and Syria. In contrast to the first formalized and official theology of the "founding fathers" of the church, the Desert Fathers were ordinary Christians who chose to renounce the world and live lives of celibacy, fasting, vigil, prayer and poverty in direct and simple response to the gospel. Their sayings were first recorded in the 4th century and consist of spiritual advice, anecdotes and parables. They have inspired poetry, opera and art as well as providing spiritual nourishment and being a template for monastic life.
Author Bio
Benedicta Ward is a Reader in the History of Early Christian Spirituality at the Theology Faculty in Oxford. She is the author of An Introduction to Christian Spirituality (SPCK, 1999) and Miracles and the Medieval Mind (Pennsylvania UP, 1987). She has translated The Prayers and Meditations of St Anslem for Penguin Classics.
