AUGUSTINIAN CANON Meaning and
Definition
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The term "Augustinian Canon" refers to a set of principles or guidelines that are derived from the writings and teachings of Saint Augustine of Hippo, a prominent theologian and philosopher of the 4th and 5th centuries. These principles form the foundation of the Augustinian Order, a Catholic religious order that follows the teachings and spirituality of Augustine.
The Augustinian Canon encompasses various aspects of religious life, including theological, moral, and spiritual doctrines. It emphasizes Augustine's teachings on the nature of God, human nature, salvation, and the Church. According to the Augustinian Canon, God is the supreme being and the ultimate source of all reality, and humans are created by God and are in need of His grace and salvation due to the presence of original sin.
The Augustinian Canon also emphasizes the importance of divine grace in the process of salvation. Augustine taught that humans cannot attain salvation through their own efforts but are entirely dependent on God's grace. This grace is believed to be freely given by God as a gift, and it is required for individuals to be reconciled with God and achieve eternal life.
Furthermore, the Augustinian Canon emphasizes the significance of the Church as the means through which God's grace is dispensed. Augustine viewed the Church as a visible institution that represents the body of Christ and is responsible for guiding believers on the path of salvation.
Overall, the Augustinian Canon provides a framework for understanding and living out the teachings and spirituality of Saint Augustine within the Augustinian Order and within the broader Catholic tradition. It serves as a guide for both religious and laypeople who seek to deepen their understanding of Augustine's teachings and incorporate them into their lives.
Etymology of AUGUSTINIAN CANON
The word "Augustinian" in "Augustinian Canon" refers to St. Augustine of Hippo, a renowned theologian and philosopher from the 4th and 5th centuries. St. Augustine is highly regarded in Christian history for his influential works and theological teachings.
The term "Canon" in this context refers to a religious community or order. It comes from the Greek word "kanon", which originally meant a straight rod or bar used for measurement. In Christian tradition, it later evolved to refer to a definitive list or rule, such as the authoritative list of biblical books accepted by a particular church.
The combination "Augustinian Canon" originated with the Augustinians, a religious order founded in the 13th century. The Augustinian Canons, also known as Canons Regular of St. Augustine, were communities of priests or monks who followed the rule of St. Augustine.
