Lives and Legends of the Georgian Saints

This book offers a unique insight into the lives of Georgian saints, providing a rich and many-sided perspective of life in the Caucasus, Byzantium, and Palestine. It explores the history and aspirations of an important branch of the Eastern Church and its relationships with Zoroastrian Persia, the Arab Caliphate, the Imperial Court of Constantinople, and mediaeval Christendom.

Format: Unspecified
Length: 178 pages
Publication date: 24 November 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

When this book was first published in 1956, none of the biographies included herein had been previously translated into English, with the exception of the life of St. Nino. The lives of the Georgian saints are rich and multifaceted, far from being mere dry chronicles of monastic trivia. They offer vivid portrayals of life in the Caucasus, Byzantium, and Palestine. These accounts provide the reader with valuable insights into the history, aspirations, and relationships of a significant branch of the Eastern Church with Zoroastrian Persia, the Arab Caliphate, the Imperial Court of Constantinople, and the broader world of mediaeval Christendom.

The Georgian saints' lives are a testament to the vibrant and diverse tapestry of the Eastern Church. Their stories, filled with vivid descriptions and intricate details, transport readers to a bygone era. From the rugged landscapes of the Caucasus to the bustling cities of Byzantium and Palestine, the saints' experiences shed light on the rich cultural and historical backdrop of their time.

One of the most remarkable aspects of the Georgian saints' lives is their deep connection with Zoroastrian Persia. Despite the religious differences between the two faiths, the Georgian saints maintained close ties with the Persian empire. This relationship was facilitated by the fact that Georgia was a vassal state of the Persian empire, and the Georgian Church played a significant role in the cultural and religious life of the region.

The Georgian saints also had close relationships with the Arab Caliphate and the Imperial Court of Constantinople. These interactions were marked by cultural exchange, theological debates, and political alliances. The Georgian Church, with its unique blend of Orthodoxy and Georgian traditions, played a crucial role in shaping the religious and cultural landscape of the Middle East.

Furthermore, the Georgian saints' lives offer a glimpse into the aspirations and struggles of the Eastern Church during the mediaeval period. They faced numerous challenges, including persecution, political instability, and cultural assimilation. However, they remained steadfast in their faith and continued to spread the message of Christ throughout the world.

The Georgian saints' lives are a valuable resource for scholars and historians alike. They provide a wealth of information about the history, culture, and religious practices of the Eastern Church during the mediaeval period. By studying the lives of these saints, we can gain a deeper understanding of the complex and multifaceted world of mediaeval Christendom.

In conclusion, the Georgian saints' lives are a testament to the rich and multifaceted history of the Eastern Church. Their stories offer a glimpse into the lives of these remarkable individuals and their contributions to the world of religion and culture. By studying their lives, we can gain a deeper understanding of the history and aspirations of an important branch of the Eastern Church and its relationships with other faiths and cultures.

Weight: 340g
Dimension: 216 x 138 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032146799