Scholars of the patristic era have paid more attention to the dogmatic tradition in their period than to the development of Christian mystical theology. Andrew Louth aims to redress the balance. Recognizing that the intellectual form of this tradition was decisively influenced by Platonic ideas of the soul's relationship to God, Louth begins with an examination of Plato and Platonism. The discussion of the Fathers which follows shows how the mystical tradition is at the heart of their thought and how the dogmatic tradition both moulds and is the reflection of mystical insights and concerns. This new edition of a classic study of the diverse influences upon Christian spirituality includes a new Epilogue which brings the text completely up to date.

About the Author
Andrew Louth is Professor of Patristic and Byzantine Studies, University of Durham.

Reviews
The Origins of the Christian Mystical Tradition [is] a standard resource for students of this topic * M. J Edwards, The Classical Review *
a book on spirituality which is trenchant and without any touch of sentimentality. * Henry Chadwick, TLS *
It is not often that we chance to meet with a book so rich that it would be impossible to discuss it in full without writing another one at least as long. * Louis Bouyer, Sobornost *
It is a great merit in this book that it is ready to talk about dogma and indeed tries to unite, in the spirit of the Fathers, doctrine and spirituality. * Journal of Theological Studies *
splendid survey of patristic spirituality ... Here we find not merely the often-repeated statement that theology and spirituality are inseparable in the Fathers, but a careful demonstration of this. * New Fire *



Book Information
ISBN 9780199291403
Author Andrew Louth
Format Paperback
Page Count 256
Imprint Oxford University Press
Publisher Oxford University Press
Weight(grams) 300g
Dimensions(mm) 215mm * 141mm * 14mm