Truth and Reality: The Wisdom of St Bonaventure

The Collations on the Hexaëmeron is a significant text of medieval theology, composed of lectures given by St Bonaventure in Paris in 1273. It is a thorough study and exposition of the last work for which he was responsible before his death in 1274. The text has been well translated and edited, and its significance for theology and prayer in the life of the Church today is examined.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 267 pages
Publication date: 24 June 2021
Publisher: James Clarke & Co Ltd

This extensive analysis and exposition delve into the final work attributed to St. Bonaventure before his passing in 1274. The Collations on the Hexaëmeron, also known as The Illuminations of the Church, encompass a series of lectures delivered by St. Bonaventure in Paris in 1273 to Franciscan and other students and masters at the university there. These lectures were meticulously recorded by two independent witnesses, and one version, considered the definitive one, was prepared for publication and approved by St. Bonaventure himself. This remarkable text stands as one of the most intriguing, original, and significant contributions to medieval theology, and it has been skillfully translated and edited in a recent edition. The primary objective of this study is to explore the precise context that shaped St. Bonaventure's approach to this work, to position it as the culminating achievement of his spiritual theology, and to offer a concise yet comprehensive summary of the text's contents, highlighting their profound significance for theology and prayer in the life of the Church today.

The Collations on the Hexaëmeron, also known as The Illuminations of the Church, encompass a series of lectures delivered by St. Bonaventure in Paris in 1273 to Franciscan and other students and masters at the university there. These lectures were meticulously recorded by two independent witnesses, and one version, considered the definitive one, was prepared for publication and approved by St. Bonaventure himself. This remarkable text stands as one of the most intriguing, original, and significant contributions to medieval theology, and it has been skillfully translated and edited in a recent edition. The primary objective of this study is to explore the precise context that shaped St. Bonaventure's approach to this work, to position it as the culminating achievement of his spiritual theology, and to offer a concise yet comprehensive summary of the text's contents, highlighting their profound significance for theology and prayer in the life of the Church today.

St. Bonaventure's Collations on the Hexaëmeron, also known as The Illuminations of the Church, represent a significant and influential work in medieval theology. Delivered in Paris in 1273 to Franciscan and other students and masters at the university, these lectures were meticulously recorded by two independent witnesses and later prepared for publication with St. Bonaventure's approval. The work consists of six collations, each exploring a different aspect of Christian doctrine.

The first collation, titled "On the Creation of the World," examines the creation of the universe and the role of God in it. St. Bonaventure emphasizes the divine wisdom and power that guided the process, highlighting the beauty and order of the created world. He also discusses the fall of man and the need for redemption, which he sees as the ultimate purpose of God's creation.

The second collation, titled "On the Trinity," explores the nature of God as three distinct persons yet one in essence. St. Bonaventure explains the relationship between the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit and their roles in the redemption of humanity. He also discusses the importance of the Incarnation and the role of Christ in reconciling God and man.

The third collation, titled "On the Incarnation of Christ," examines the birth and life of Jesus Christ, including his teachings, miracles, and death. St. Bonaventure emphasizes the importance of Jesus as the savior of humanity and the means by which God's love and grace are made available to all. He also discusses the significance of the Eucharist and the role of the Church in celebrating it.

The fourth collation, titled "On the Passion of Christ," explores the suffering and death of Jesus on the cross. St. Bonaventure emphasizes the love and compassion of God for humanity and the significance of Jesus's sacrifice for the redemption of all. He also discusses the importance of repentance and conversion and the need for Christians to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.

The fifth collation, titled "On the Resurrection of Christ," examines the resurrection of Jesus from the dead and its implications for the Christian faith. St. Bonaventure emphasizes the power and authority. He also discusses the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of Christians and the importance of living a life of holiness and virtue.

The sixth collation, titled "On the Ascension of Christ," explores the ascension of Jesus into heaven and his departure from the earth. St. Bonaventure emphasizes the importance of Jesus's ascension for the salvation of humanity and the hope it provides for the future. He also discusses the role of the Church in spreading the gospel and the need for Christians to be witnesses to the world.

In conclusion, St. Bonaventure's Collations on the Hexaëmeron are a rich and profound exploration of Christian doctrine. Through his meticulous analysis and exposition, St. Bonaventure provides a clear and concise summary of the key themes and ideas presented in each collation. The work is a testament to St. Bonaventure's depth of knowledge and understanding of the Christian faith and his commitment to promoting its teachings. The Illuminations of the Church have had a lasting impact on the development of medieval theology and continue to be a source of inspiration and guidance for Christians today.

Weight: 408g
Dimension: 155 x 232 x 29 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780227177334