Nilus of Ancyra: Byzantine Theologian and Ascetic

Nilus of Ancyra was one of the most significant theologians and spiritual guides of the fifth century. His Scriptural commentaries include a truly distinctive interpretation of the Song of Songs, his treatises such as On Voluntary Poverty and Monastic Asceticism comprise invaluable and unique evidence of fifth spirituality and theology precisely when Christian teaching was reaching a definite and consensual form in the fifth century, and his letters, with their all-inclusive range of correspondents, from slaves to emperor, provide a unique window into the politics, controversies, and daily life in the later Roman Empire. And his style, featuring humor, wit, word play, and his own invented vocabulary, make Nilus one of the most, if not the most, creative and innovative writers of the early church. Long neglected because his name was used to protect the works of his predecessor, Evagrius Pontikos, Nilus’ work is unquestionably valuable in its own right. This translation offers a modern and accurate selection from his innovative, deeply spiritual, and delightfully poetic ouvre.