Dangerous Passions, Deadly Sins: Learning from the Psychology of Ancient Monks

by Dennis L. Okholm

Publisher:

Brazos

, 2014

Overview

This volume unpacks the psychological insights found in the writings of three early monks—Evagrius Ponticus (fourth century), John Cassian (fifth century), and Gregory the Great (sixth century)—to help us appreciate the relevance of these monastic writers and apply their wisdom to our own spiritual and psychological well-being. The book addresses each of the seven deadly sins, offering practical guidance from the early monastic tradition for overcoming these dangerous passions. As Dennis Okholm introduces key monastic figures, literature, and thought of the early church, he relates early Christian writings to modern studies in psychology. He shows how ancient monks often anticipated the insights of contemporary psychology and sociology, exploring, for example, how their discussions of gluttony compare with current discussions regarding eating disorders. This book will appeal to readers interested in spirituality, early monastic resources, and ancient wisdom for human flourishing, as well as students of spirituality and spiritual formation.

Product Details

• Title: Dangerous Passions, Deadly Sins: Learning from the Psychology of Ancient Monks
• Author: Dennis L. Okholm
• Publisher: Brazos
• Print Publication Date: 2014
• Logos Release Date: 2015
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subjects: Benedictines › Spiritual life; Deadly sins; Christianity › Psychology
• ISBNs: 9781441220929, 9781587433535, 9781441246462, 1441220925, 1587433532, 1441246460
• Resource ID: LLS:DNGRSPSSNSDDSNS
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2022-09-29T23:21:07Z

About Dennis L. Okholm

Okholm (Ph.D., Princeton Theological Seminary) teaches in the department of theology and philosophy at Haggard School of Theology, Azusa Pacific University. Previously he was associate professor of theology at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. He is also an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA), and an oblate of a Benedictine monastery (Blue Cloud Abbey, SD). He has coauthored and coedited several books, including two collections of papers presented at the annual Wheaton Theology Conference and Welcome to the Family: An Introduction to Evangelical Christianity (all in partnership with Timothy R. Phillips).