The Library of Paradise: A History of Contemplative Reading in the Monasteries of the Church of the East

Contemplative reading is a spiritual practice developed by Christian monks in sixth- and seventh-century Mesopotamia, which was later codified by Abraham of Kashkar and Babai the Great. Syriac monastic handbooks of the seventh century built on this Evagrian framework, and Enanisho of Adiabene composed an anthology called Paradise that was essential reading matter for Syriac monks. The Library of Paradise is the first book-length study of East Syrian contemplative reading and opens the possibility for future investigation into its legacies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 13 October 2022
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Contemplative reading is a profound spiritual practice that emerged during the sixth and seventh centuries in Mesopotamia, specifically within the context of Christian monks. These mystics, part of the Church of the East, followed a transformative path of contemplation that involved a sequence of steps, starting from reading, moving to meditation, prayer, and ultimately reaching the ecstatic experience of divine vision. The Library of Paradise, a seminal work, delves into the rich tapestry of this Syriac tradition, unfolding its establishment as an ascetic practice, the articulation of its theology, and its gradual maturation and spread.

In the sixth century, a significant monastic reform led by Abraham of Kashkar established the centrality of reading in the ascetic life of East Syrian monks. This reform codified the practice of contemplative reading, which received extensive theological commentary over the years. Abraham's successor, Babai the Great, drew upon the ascetic system of Evagrius of Pontus to explain the profound relationship between reading and the monk's pursuit of God. Syriac monastic handbooks of the seventh century further built upon this Evagrian framework, providing detailed guidance and insights into the practice of contemplative reading.

One of the most influential works in this tradition was Enanisho of Adiabene's anthology called Paradise. This compilation of spiritual writings became an essential text for Syriac monks, offering them a gateway to the divine through contemplation. Dadisho of Qatar, another notable commentator, wrote a widely copied commentary on Paradise, further enriching the understanding and practice of this spiritual discipline. Together, these works circulated as a one-volume library, known as the "Library of Paradise," which provided readers with a profound and transformative experience.

The Library of Paradise stands as the first comprehensive study of East Syrian contemplative reading. Drawing upon insights from previous scholarship on reading, including studies on Latin lectio divina, this work offers a fresh perspective on the origins and development of this spiritual practice. By tracing the roots of East Syrian contemplative reading, this study opens up a realm of possibilities for future research. It paves the way for exploring the enduring legacies of this tradition, including its profound influence on Sogdian, Arabic, and Ethiopic monastic libraries throughout history.

In conclusion, contemplative reading is a profound spiritual practice that emerged within the Christian monastic tradition of the Church of the East. It involves a sequential journey of reading, meditation, prayer, and divine vision, leading to a profound connection with the divine. The Library of Paradise, through its comprehensive exploration of this tradition, sheds light on the origins and legacies of East Syrian contemplative reading, offering valuable insights for scholars and practitioners alike.

Weight: 672g
Dimension: 162 x 243 x 28 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198836247