Gospel in Art: Feast of Saint Augustine

Master of Saint Augustine, Netherlandish 1490, © Metropolitan Museum, New York

Source: Christian Art

Gospel of 28 August 2024
Matthew 23:27-32

Jesus said: 'Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who are like whitewashed tombs that look handsome on the outside, but inside are full of dead men's bones and every kind of corruption. In the same way you appear to people from the outside like good honest men, but inside you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness.

'Alas for you, scribes and Pharisees, you hypocrites! You who build the sepulchres of the prophets and decorate the tombs of holy men, saying, "We would never have joined in shedding the blood of the prophets, had we lived in our fathers' day." So! Your own evidence tells against you! You are the sons of those who murdered the prophets! Very well then, finish off the work that your fathers began.'

Reflection on the painting

Saint Augustine of Hippo, born on 13th November 354 in Tagaste (in modern-day Algeria), is one of the most influential theologians and philosophers in the history of Christianity. Initially leading a hedonistic lifestyle, Augustine's early years were marked by a quest for truth through various philosophical and religious systems, including exploring heresies such as Manichaeism (an ancient dualistic religion founded by the prophet Mani in the 3rd century, which posits a cosmic struggle between the forces of light [good] and darkness [evil]). His mother, Saint Monica (whose feast day we celebrated yesterday), persistently prayed for his conversion. Augustine eventually encountered the works of Saint Ambrose and was profoundly influenced by him. This led to his dramatic conversion to Christianity in 386. He was baptised by Saint Ambrose in Milan in 387. Augustine later returned to Africa, where he became the Bishop of Hippo. His extensive writings, including Confessions and The City of God, have left an indelible mark on Christian thought. Saint Augustine's feast day is celebrated on 28th August, the day of his death in 430.

Reflection on the painting

Our painting, circa 1490, was the central panel of a triptych dedicated to Saint Augustine (354-430). The composition is divided into five scenes:

- in the centre, Augustine is consecrated bishop of Hippo Regius, a Roman city in present-day Algeria;

- in the upper left, he is ordained as a priest;

- in the lower left, Augustine preaches while his mother, Monica, anachronistically prays the rosary

- in the upper right, he converses with a boy who says that filling a hole in the sand with the sea is no more difficult than explaining the Trinity;

- and in the lower right, Saint Augustine preaches.

The vivid storytelling, intricate details, and rich colours, are remarkable. Through its visual narrative, the painting invites viewers to reflect on the saint's struggles, triumphs, and enduring legacy.

Saint Augustine, Pray for us.

LINKS

Gospel in Art: https://christian.art/
Today's Reflection: https://christian.art/daily-gospel-reading/matthew-23-27-32-2024/