In Search of Ecclesial Unity and Peace

Augustine's Polemical Use of Metaphors in Iohannis euangelium Tractatus

Abstract : The Donastist controversy is one of the topics that has continued to receive attention in recent scholarship. In this article, I look at Augustin's use of metaphors and imageries in In Iohannis euangelium Tractatus. I argue that Augustine's use of the metaphors of a dove, Christ's...

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Bibliographic Details
Author:Isaac Vasumu Augustine
Published: S.n., s.l., 2022
Volume:235
Pages:45-64
Language:English
Notes:Resumen, 45; Abstract, 45-46.
Periodical:La Ciudad de Dios
Number:1
ISSN:0009-7756
Format:Article
Topic:- Biography > Relations and Sources > Donatism. Tyconius > Donatism > Anti-Donatist
- Works > Augustine writer > Poetry > Metaphors / Comparisons
- Works > In Ioannis Evangelium et Epistulam > Tractatus in Johannis Evangelium
- Doctrine > From man to God > [Morale] > Peace
- Doctrine > Being > [Infinité. Immutabilité. Unité] > [Un - unité]
Status:Active
Description
Summary:Abstract : The Donastist controversy is one of the topics that has continued to receive attention in recent scholarship. In this article, I look at Augustin's use of metaphors and imageries in In Iohannis euangelium Tractatus. I argue that Augustine's use of the metaphors of a dove, Christ's tunic and Noah's ark not only falls within the larger framework of his biblical axegesis in the Donatist controversy, but contributes to his project of restoring peace and unity to the North African Church. Similarly, the bishop of Hippo uses these metaphors not just to fulfil his episcopal duties of providing spiritual nourishment for his flock, but to admonish the Donatists to reflect on the profundity of ecclesial unity, attested to by the authority of Holy Scripture. Augustine conceptualizes his metaphorical-biblical analysis of the dove, Noah's ark and Christ's tunic as spiritual, moral and ecclesial heuristics, meant to bridge disunity and foster peaceful Christian coexistence, tolerance and transformation. Finally, I highlight why and how Augustine's use of these metaphors still has contemporary relevance for the Church, especially in the area of ecumenical collaboration.

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