The Spiritual Combat

The Spiritual Combat is known as one of the greatest classics in ascetic theology, along with The Imitation of Christ. In both cases the authors are shrouded in mystery. Several 17th century editions were published under the name of the Spanish Benedictine, John of Castanzia. Some writers of the Society of Jesus have ascribed the book to the Jesuit, Achilles Gagliardi, but most critics however consider Fr. Lawrence Scupoli as the author of this famous treatise. The first known edition was published in Venice in 1589 and contained but 24 chapters; later editions appeared with more chapters, so it is possible that the Theatines or another religious order may have been part of the composition. Whatever may be the solution of the problem of the author, doubt of the actual one or ones, can take nothing away from the value and efficacy of this "golden book" as St. Frances de Sales called it. It was "the favorite, the dear book" of this great master of the spiritual life who, for 18 years, carried in a pocket a copy which he had received from Fr. Scupoli in Padua himself. The Saint read some pages of it every day, entrusted to its supernatural and human wisdom, the guidance of his soul, and recommended it to all under his direction. The purpose of the work is to lead the soul to the summit of spiritual perfection, by means of a constant, courageous struggle against our evil nature, which tends to keep us away from that goal.

Author: Lorenzo Scupoli
Publisher: Lulu.com
Published: 12/12/2020
Pages: 160
Binding Type: Paperback
Weight: 0.48lbs
Size: 8.27h x 5.83w x 0.37d
ISBN: 9781716338700

About the Author
Scupoli, Lorenzo: - Dom Lorenzo Scupoli (ca. 1530 28 November 1610) was born in Otranto, Apulia. At baptism, he received the name Francesco. Being already at a mature age in 1569, he joined the Theatines. He took Holy Orders exceptionally fast, after eight years. In 1585 he was accused of breaking the rule. He was held prisoner for a year and deprived of the priestly faculties. Finally he was exonerated, but had come close to dying in waiting for so. He endured the false accusations and punishments with humility, sacrificing the suffering for various intentions. Dom Scupoli would author the Spiritual Combat in 1489, the first edition being published in Venice. It is a practical manual of living against evil vices and temptations.

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