The Synod of Hippo, also known as the Council of Hippo, was a regional council held in Hippo Regius, present-day Annaba in Algeria, in the year 393 AD. The synod was primarily convened by the North African Christian bishops to discuss and determine issues related to Church doctrine, theology, and discipline.
This religious gathering, led by the renowned bishop Augustine of Hippo, aimed to address matters such as the canonization of scripture, the regulation of church practices, the affirmation of orthodox beliefs, and the condemnation of heretical teachings. One of the crucial outcomes of the synod was the recognition and establishment of the Canon of Scripture, which affirmed the 66 books of the Bible that are accepted today.
Additionally, the Synod of Hippo exhibited the strong influence of Augustine's theological teachings, particularly his emphasis on original sin, grace, and predestination. The council's decisions and canons played a significant role in shaping the development of Western Christianity and contributed to the formation of Roman Catholic doctrine.
Although the Synod of Hippo was a regional council, its decisions carried considerable weight and were subsequently ratified by the larger Councils of Carthage in 397 and 419 AD. These councils further cemented the relevance and authority of the Synod's decisions in the broader Christian community.
Ultimately, the Synod of Hippo holds historical significance as a pivotal event in early Christian history, notably for its impact on the canonization of scripture and the development of orthodox Christian theology.
