Basil of Caesarea

“Basil’s reputation as a theologian has grown remarkably—and deservedly—in the past few years. New scholarship and new translation has reminded us that Basil is one of the great theologians and Christian teachers of the fourth century. Stephen Hildebrand’s book is a very welcome introduction to the ‘new Basil.’ Hildebrand now takes his place alongside such significant Basilian scholars as Andrew Radde-Gallwitz and Mark DelCogliano.”—Lewis Ayres, Professor of Catholic and Historical Theology, Durham University

“Basil of Caesarea is the giant of the fourth-century theologians, and he intimidates many who approach his works today. Here lies the value of Stephen Hildebrand’s book: he introduces us not to a part of Basil’s thought but to his theology as a whole. Moreover, he introduces not merely a corpus of ancient texts but also their author. This is a valuable book not only for historians of theology but for anyone who wants to understand the role of theology in late antiquity.”—Thomas O’Loughlin, professor of historical theology, University of Nottingham

“Basil is a pivotal figure in the history of the church, and his biblical interpretation is no small part of this achievement. We cannot begin to understand his prodigies of charitable activity or ecclesiastical administration until we understand his ascesis and his contemplative approach to Scripture. This book is more than a look back. At a time when the world is regaining an appreciation of social doctrine, spiritual discipline, and patristic exegesis, it is a way forward.”—Scott Hahn, Pope Benedict XVI Chair of Biblical Theology and Liturgical Proclamation, St. Vincent Seminary; professor of scripture and theology, Franciscan University of Steubenville

“This is an excellent, up-to-date, and detailed introduction to Basil’s life and work. The great strength of this book is the way the author brings together Basil’s theological work on the Trinity and his practical work on monastic life, topics that have been studied separately by different people. He shows how both sides of Basil’s work spring from the same desire to know God and zeal to obey his holy will. What emerges is a literary sculpture of the monk-bishop of Caesarea.”—Nonna Verna Harrison, author of St. Basil the Great on the Human Condition

“This is a wonderful book on one of the great thinkers of the ancient Christian world. It offers the reader a broad window onto his personality and writing in a radiantly lively way. It will be a standard book for students and all those interested in early Christian theology.”—John McGuckin, Columbia University