Saint Ambrose's Doctrine of Purity of Heart in De Paradiso

Author

Toppo Toshihiro Takamura, College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University

Date of Award

5-12-2003

Document Type

Graduate Paper

Degree Name

Master of Arts in Theology

Department

School of Theology and Seminary

First Advisor

Martin Connell

Subject Categories

Christianity | History of Christianity | Religion | Religious Thought, Theology and Philosophy of Religion

Abstract

Ambrose's theology of paradise presented in De paradiso is his version of the doctrine of purity of heart, and this interpretation helps us to understand Ambrose's theology of sin, particularly his view of concupiscence.

The paper explores Ambrose's theology of paradise presented in De paradiso, and argues that it is his version of the doctrine of purity of heart. The first part of the paper looks at major characteristics observed in De paradiso through the aspects of exegesis, apologetics, and theology. Then, it examines Ambrose's theology of paradise with special emphasis upon unique aspects of the doctrine of purity of heart. Finally, it discusses Ambrose's theology of sin and his view of concupiscence, which are best understood with the interpretation that for Ambrose theology of paradise and the doctrine of purity of heart are identical.

Comments

Access restricted to College of Saint Benedict/Saint John's University on-campus users.

Recommended Citation

Takamura, Toppo Toshihiro, "Saint Ambrose's Doctrine of Purity of Heart in De Paradiso" (2003). School of Theology and Seminary Graduate Papers/Theses. 1550.
https://digitalcommons.csbsju.edu/sot_papers/1550