From one of the most thought-provoking writers in the monastic tradition, this volume contains 153 short, contemplative sayings of St. Isaac of Nineveh (fl. St. Isaac was ordained bishop of Nineveh but resigned his post only five months later and became a monastic hermit in the mountains of southeastern Iraq.
Focusing on the foundational aspects of Syriac studies, this introduction highlights its significance across various fields such as Biblical studies and Near Eastern history. It provides an overview of Syriac literature's history and situates Syriac within the broader context of Aramaic dialects. Essential research tools are discussed, including grammars, dictionaries, and bibliographical resources. An appendix clarifies the relationships among different Churches of the Syriac tradition and their place within the wider Christian context, addressing the terminology used to describe them.
The book offers a comprehensive exploration of Syriac literature spanning from the second to the twenty-first century, organized into six historical periods. It highlights significant authors and their works, providing insights into the evolution of this literary tradition. Excerpts from key writings enrich the reader's understanding of the cultural and historical context of Syriac literature.
The book explores the distinct themes and characteristics of spirituality within the Syriac tradition, highlighting its unique aspects. It includes excerpts from various texts that illustrate these spiritual features, offering readers insight into the depth and richness of Syriac spirituality. Sebastian Brock's introduction serves as a guide to understanding the significance and context of these texts, making it a valuable resource for those interested in this tradition.
Focusing on the dialogue between religious figures, this book presents critical editions and annotated English translations of four anonymous Syriac dialogue poems. Each poem features distinct protagonists, such as the Synagogue and Church or Jesus and the Pharisees. The texts are based on the oldest manuscripts, correcting earlier editions that relied on corrupt sources. The work aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of these dialogues, which have previously been published for a limited audience.
Focusing on the persecution faced by a Sasanian general who converted to Christianity during Shapur II's reign, this historical account stands out for its literary quality compared to similar martyrdom narratives. The first edition of the Syriac text and its complete translation are provided by Sebastian P. Brock. Additionally, the volume features a guide to the Persian Martyr Acts and helpful indices for further exploration of these texts, making it a significant contribution to the study of early Christian martyrdom.
Ephrem the Syrian and his Significance in Late Antiquity
Focusing on Ephrem the Syrian, this first volume of the Sebastianyotho series compiles insightful articles by Sebastian P. Brock. The work delves into the historical and theological significance of Ephrem's writings, exploring their impact on early Christian thought and literature. Brock's analysis offers readers a deeper understanding of Ephrem's contributions and the cultural context of his time, making it a valuable resource for scholars and enthusiasts of early Christian studies.