The Spiritual Combat - Softcover

Scupoli, Dom Lorenzo

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1542770289 ISBN 13: 9781542770286

Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform, 2017

Synopsis

The Spiritual Combat is known as one of the greatest classics in ascetic theology, along with The Imitation of Christ. In both cases the authors are shrouded in mystery. Several 17th century editions were published under the name of the Spanish Benedictine, John of Castanzia. Some writers of the Society of Jesus have ascribed the book to the Jesuit, Achilles Gagliardi, but most critics however consider Fr. Lawrence Scupoli as the author of this famous treatise. The first known edition was published in Venice in 1589 and contained but 24 chapters; later editions appeared with more chapters, so it is possible that the Theatines or another religious order may have been part of the composition. Whatever may be the solution of the problem of the author, doubt of the actual one or ones, can take nothing away from the value and efficacy of this “golden book” as St. Frances de Sales called it. It was “the favorite, the dear book” of this great master of the spiritual life who, for 18 years, carried in a pocket a copy which he had received from Fr. Scupoli in Padua himself. The Saint read some pages of it every day, entrusted to its supernatural and human wisdom, the guidance of his soul, and recommended it to all under his direction. The purpose of the work is to lead the soul to the summit of spiritual perfection, by means of a constant, courageous struggle against our evil nature, which tends to keep us away from that goal.

About this title

About the Author

Lorenzo Scupoli (c.1530-1610) was born in Otranto, Italy. He was admitted to the religious order of the Theatine Regular Clerks of St. Cajetan in 1571, and by his desire was called Lorenzo of Otranto. He later went to Milan, under the provost St. Andrew Avellino. After many years of active duties he retired into strict seclusion and wrote The Spiritual Combat.

About this edition

• Publisher: CreateSpace Independent Publishing Platform
• Publication date: 2017
• ISBN 10: 1542770289
• ISBN 13: 9781542770286
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 140
• Editor: Hermenegild Brother