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Through Holiness to Wisdom provides a detailed look at Bonaventure’s
claim that “passing from science to wisdom is not assured; a means must
be placed in between, namely, holiness” (Hex. 19.3). For the Seraphic
Doctor, theology is a true science, albeit not a rationalistic deduction
of conclusions. From his earliest works, he recognized that theology
depends upon the transformation of reason by grace. His insight into the
significance and form of this transformation deepened through his
meditations on St. Francis, culminating in a view of theology in which
only the saint, whose perception is attuned to the expressive presence
of God in creation and revelation, possesses true theological wisdom. In
this book, Gregory LaNave examines Bonaventure’s understanding of
theology as a science, his doctrine of holiness, his view of Francis as
a theologian and as a source of theology, and his understanding of
theological wisdom. Many modern theologians have warned of the dangers
of a division between theology and holiness. The example of Bonaventure
–academic theologian, minister general, and spiritual writer recognized
as “the doctor of mystical theology”– provides an important and
perennial alternative that merits serious consideration. |
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