Pride and Humility in Saint Augustine: A Theological and Philosophical Study

In his book "Pride and Humility in Saint Augustine," Walterson José Vargas offers a comprehensive exploration of the concepts of pride and humility in the thought of Saint Augustine of Hippo, one of the most influential Christian theologians and philosophers of all time. Vargas argues that Augustine's understanding of these virtues is essential for understanding his entire theological and philosophical system, and that it has profound implications for Christian thought and practice today.

Augustine's Understanding of Pride

Augustine defines pride as "the love of one's own excellence," and he sees it as the root of all sin. He argues that pride is a disorder of the soul that leads people to seek their own glory rather than the glory of God. Pride is also a form of idolatry, because it places the self at the center of one's life instead of God.

Augustine identifies several manifestations of pride, including:

• Self-righteousness: The belief that one is better than others.
• Arrogance: The excessive admiration of one's own abilities.
• Boasting: The夸耀 of one's accomplishments.
• Disobedience: The refusal to submit to God's authority.

Augustine argues that pride is a destructive force that can lead to all sorts of evil, including violence, war, and oppression. He also believes that pride is the root of heresy, because it leads people to reject the truth of God's revelation.

Augustine's Understanding of Humility

Augustine defines humility as "the virtue by which a person acknowledges his own nothingness before God." He argues that humility is the opposite of pride, and that it is essential for salvation. Humility is a recognition of our own finitude and creatureliness, and it leads us to depend on God for everything.

Augustine identifies several manifestations of humility, including:

• Self-knowledge: The awareness of one's own limitations and weaknesses.
• Repentance: The turning away from sin and toward God.
• Gratitude: The thankfulness for God's gifts.
• Obedience: The submission to God's authority.

Augustine argues that humility is a liberating virtue that allows us to experience the true freedom of God's love. He also believes that humility is essential for Christian community, because it helps us to overcome our selfish desires and to work together in harmony.

The Implications of Augustine's Thought for Today

Vargas argues that Augustine's understanding of pride and humility has profound implications for Christian thought and practice today. He believes that Augustine's insights can help us to overcome the pride that is so prevalent in our culture, and to cultivate the humility that is essential for Christian discipleship.

Vargas also argues that Augustine's thought can help us to address some of the most pressing challenges facing the world today, such as poverty, inequality, and environmental degradation. He believes that humility is the key to building a more just and sustainable world, because it leads us to recognize our interdependence and to work together for the common good.

"Pride and Humility in Saint Augustine" is a rich and rewarding study of two of the most important virtues in the Christian tradition. Vargas's work is a valuable resource for scholars, theologians, and anyone interested in the thought of Saint Augustine.

Conclusion

In "Pride and Humility in Saint Augustine," Walterson José Vargas offers a comprehensive and insightful exploration of the concepts of pride and humility in the thought of Saint Augustine. Vargas argues that Augustine's understanding of these virtues is essential for understanding his entire theological and philosophical system, and that it has profound implications for Christian thought and practice today. Vargas's work is a valuable resource for scholars, theologians, and anyone interested in the thought of Saint Augustine.