The Divine Sense: The Intellect in Patristic Theology

by A.N. Williams

A. N. Williams examines the conception of the intellect in patristic theology from its beginnings in the work of the Apostolic Fathers to Augustine and Cassian in the early fifth century. The patristic notion of intellect emerges from its systematic relations to other components of theology: the relation of human mind to the body and the will; the relation of the human to the divine intellect; of human reason to divine revelation and secular philosophy; and from the use of the intellect in both theological reflection and spiritual contemplation. The patristic conception of that intellect is therefore important for the way it signals the character of early Christian theology as both systematic and contemplative and as such, distinctive in its approach from secular philosophies of its time and modern Christian theology.

Genres: Theology

266 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2007

Reviews

[Steve · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a very full study of the patristics in terms of their views of the mind, intellect, human thought, and its relation to the mind of God and the Trinity. Williams mainly concentrates on the Cappadocians and Augustine.

[Ephrem Arcement · Rating 5 out of 5]

Magnificent study! Clearly delineated approach to the main players in the patristic period. Williams convincingly argues for a systematic approach to the Fathers in regard to their theology and anthropology and places the intellect at the front and center of the quest for God. We have much to learn (and recover) from these integral giants!