The City of God · Chapter
Of the captivity of the saints, and that divine consolation never failed them therein. explained
Augustine addresses the objection that many Christians were taken captive, arguing that even in captivity they are never separated from God's consolation.
What happens
Augustine addresses the objection that many Christians were taken captive, arguing that even in captivity they are never separated from God's consolation. He contrasts the biblical stories of Daniel, the three youths, and Jonah with pagan tales like Arion's rescue, asserting the greater power and credibility of divine miracles.
Free preview opens on this chapter — companions, themes, and character notes appear beside the text.
Narrative arc
Story tension across the book — this chapter sits in Exposition.
- Setup
- Escalation
- Breaking point
- Aftermath
- Closing
This chapter is the dramatic climax because it marks the irreversible psychological and spiritual turning poin…
Full beat labels and climax notes unlock in the reader.
Follow the arc while readingThemes in this chapter
- Divine Providence and History
God's providential care for His saints even in captivity is contrasted with pagan narratives.
- Sin, Grace, and Redemption
The captivity of the saints is framed not as punishment but as an opportunity for divine consolation and demonstration of power.
Characters to notice
- Augustine
Author and speaker defending Christian captives against pagan criticism.
- Holy Scripture
Cited as the source of consolation and miraculous accounts.
- Daniel
Mentioned as a captive whom God did not fail.
- Jonah
Referenced as the prophet preserved in the belly of a monster.
Key passages
“This indeed were a most pitiable fate, if they could be led away to any place where they could not find their God.”
Captivity would only be truly tragic if it could separate the captives from God.
Augustine redefines the meaning of captivity by emphasizing God's omnipresence.
“But that story of ours about the prophet Jonah is far more incredible—more incredible because more marvellous, and more marvellous because a greater exhibition of power.”
The biblical account of Jonah is even more astonishing than pagan tales, precisely because it displays greater divine power.
Augustine uses comparative incredibility to argue for the truth of Christian miracles.
