The Confessions, written by Saint Augustine between AD 397 and 398, is one of the most important works of Christian literature, and certainly one of Augustine's most influential works. The book is an autobiographical account of Augustine's life, in which he recounts his childhood, his conversion to Christianity, and his early years as a bishop and leader in the Church.
The book begins with an introduction in which Augustine speaks to God, asking for help in writing a true and honest account of his life. He speaks of his sins, asking for forgiveness and accepting the fact that he is a sinner. After this introspection, Augustine begins to recount his life story, and details his early years, his conversion, and his life as a bishop.
Augustine was born in 354 in Thagaste, Africa to a Christian mother, Monica, and a non-Christian father, Patricius. He grew up in a relatively wealthy family and received an excellent education, though he continued to struggle with understanding the Bible and certain aspects of Christianity. At the age of seventeen, Augustine left his family and moved to Carthage, where he fell into a debauched lifestyle and took part in several extra maritial affairs. Despite this, Monica never stopped praying for Augustine and labored to bring him back to the church.
Eventually, Augustine was drawn back to Christianity and became a devoted follower of Jesus. He joined a monastic order in Milan, and began studying Scripture deeply, eventually finding truth and peace in his faith. After a time, Augustine accepted the call to become a bishop, and devoted himself to the role and the work of the Church.
The Confessions not only gives a detailed account of Augustine's life and his progression from sin to grace. It also delves deeply into Augustine's musings on the nature of Christianity, and the relationship between man and God. Throughout the book, Augustine argues that people must go beyond mere knowledge of the Bible, and instead strive to love and appreciate it, in order to seek understanding and relationship with God. It is in this way that the book provides a valuable insight into how one can seek union with God, and reveals the deeper truths behind Christianity.
The Confessions is an honest and deeply introspective look at the life of an important Christian figure. Throughout the book, Augustine continually questions and dissects his faith, at times expressing doubt and confusion, and at other times expressing hope and joy. Whether Augustine is examining his past sins, or exploring complex theological ideas, he offers a unique perspective on the journey of faith, and how to come closer to God. As such, the book remains one of the most important and engaging works of Christian literature.
