This 18th-century manuscript is a collection of letters, essays, and sermons by Saint Gregory Nazianzus (died circa 389). The manuscript is thought to be the first Arabic translation from the original Greek and has not yet been edited or published. It is the second volume of a two-volume work. Gregory of Nazianzus, also known as Gregory the Theologian, is recognized as a Father of the Church in both the Eastern and Western traditions. He was born in Cappadocia (eastern Anatolia), where he spent much of his life. He was a classmate of emperors and of Saint Basil the Great. Like Basil, he had a Christian family upbringing, a classical education, and was known for his steadfast defense of orthodox positions on the doctrine of the Trinity and the nature of Christ. The maiamer (essays) in this volume cover theological topics, including the heresies of Apolinarius and Arius; marriage; and reflections on the Hasmonean family. Also included are a message to clergy on Easter, Gregory’s farewell address as bishop of Constantinople in 381, a panegyric to his friend and patron Saint Basil, and another to Saint Cyprian. At the end are comments on Gregory’s life and achievements. Gregory was much honored for his religious learning and literary talent. This work is part of the Iryan Moftah Collection of Coptic Books and Manuscripts at the American University in Cairo.
This 18th-century manuscript is a collection of letters, essays, and sermons by Saint Gregory Nazianzus (died circa 389). The manuscript is thought to be the first Arabic translation from the original Greek and has not yet been edited or published. It is the second volume of a two-volume work. Gregory of Nazianzus, also known as Gregory the Theologian, is recognized as a Father of the Church in both the Eastern and Western traditions. He was born in Cappadocia (eastern Anatolia), where he spent much of his life. He was a classmate of emperors and of Saint Basil the Great. Like Basil, he had a Christian family upbringing, a classical education, and was known for his steadfast defense of orthodox positions on the doctrine of the Trinity and the nature of Christ. The maiamer (essays) in this volume cover theological topics, including the heresies of Apolinarius and Arius; marriage; and reflections on the Hasmonean family. Also included are a message to clergy on Easter, Gregory’s farewell address as bishop of Constantinople in 381, a panegyric to his friend and patron Saint Basil, and another to Saint Cyprian. At the end are comments on Gregory’s life and achievements. Gregory was much honored for his religious learning and literary talent. This work is part of the Iryan Moftah Collection of Coptic Books and Manuscripts at the American University in Cairo.