The Spiritual Combat

Including the Supplement and the Path of Paradise (Christian Classics)

By: Dom Lorenzo Scupoli

Narrated by: Gordon Greenhill

The Spiritual Combat is considered one of the two greatest ascetic classics, the other being The Imitation of Christ. The authors of both are shrouded in mystery. There are many 17th-century editions which have the name Spanish Benedictine, John of Castanzia. Some Jesuit writers have ascribed the book to the Jesuit Achilles Gagliardi. However, most critics consider Fr. Lawrence Scupoli the author.

The first known edition appeared in 1589 in Venice and had only 24 chapters; later editions appeared with more chapters. It is possible that another religious order may have been part of the composition.

Whoever the author is, nothing can take away from the value of this "golden book" as St. Frances de Sales called it. This was "the favorite, the dear book" of the great master of the spiritual life. He is said to have carried it in his pocket for 18 years. The saint read from it every day to guide his soul, and he recommended it to all under his direction.

The aim of the work is to lead the soul to the height of spiritual perfection by constant struggle against our evil nature, which wants to keep us away from that end.

Public Domain (P)2020 Patristic Publishing

Very helpful!

This work is an excellent guide for navigating and engaging in the unseen warfare that comes with spiritual growth in Christ. Fantastically narrated, I deeply appreciated the poignant warnings, as well as the clear and practical advice given to fight this good fight. I will definitely be referencing this masterwork quite often the rest of my days, no doubt.

Enjoyable

I was wary of purchasing this because I am a former Roman Catholic and now an Orthodox Christian. I didn't want any Jesuit poison but this was a really good listen.

Excellent.

A gem of a book. A handbook on spiritual combat based on biblical principles. I had to read it and listen to it, and will need to keep referencing it for it’s timeless wisdom to sink in. Highly recommended during these times.

Really good

Also a easy read some Cathlioc books are hard for me but this was great

Great

Nothing i like it very much it’s not easy to understand how God wants us to entrust all what we are to him but we must do he’s will