Barlaam and Ioasaph · Chapters

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Chapter companions for Barlaam and Ioasaph by Anonymous.

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Chapter 1
The Tale
This introductory chapter discusses the origins and nature of the Barlaam and Ioasaph story, noting its derivation from the legend of Buddha and its adaptation by Eastern Christians. It highlights the author's aim to glorify Christian monasticism, the renunciation of worldly wealth, and the defense of image veneration against the Iconoclastic movement. The chapter also outlines the book's structure of narrative, speeches, and parables, and reflects on its historical popularity and subsequent decline.
Chapter 2
The Apologues
This chapter presents a collection of parables and moral tales, primarily narrated by Barlaam and Theudas, used to illustrate spiritual and ethical truths. The stories are noted for their simple, graphic style and include the famous tale of the Caskets, later used by Shakespeare.
Chapter 3
The Apology of Aristides
This chapter reveals that the speech of Nachor in Barlaam and Ioasaph is actually the Apology of Aristides, a second-century Christian defense presented to Emperor Hadrian (or Antoninus Pius). The discovery was made by Dr. Armitage Robinson after Professor Rendel Harris found a Syriac version of the Apology. The chapter highlights the calm, reasonable tone of the Apology, which appeals to common sense and plain facts.
Chapter 4
The Authorship
This chapter examines the authorship of 'Barlaam and Ioasaph', traditionally attributed to St. John of Damascus. It presents arguments for and against this attribution, notably those of H. Zotenberg, and concludes that the evidence, including doctrinal similarities and the work's context within the Iconoclastic Controversy, supports the traditional view.
Chapter 5
Barlaam and Ioasaph
This chapter introduces the edifying story of Barlaam and Ioasaph, set in the inner land of the Ethiopians, called the land of the Indians, and brought to the holy city by John the Monk of the monastery of Saint Sabas. It presents the lives of the famous and blessed Barlaam and Ioasaph.

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The Tale

The Apologues

The Apology of Aristides

The Authorship

Barlaam and Ioasaph