The Friend of The Bridegroom

Description

The Friend of the Bridegroom offers a compelling theological interpretation of John the Baptist as seen through the eyes of Eastern Orthodoxy. Written by Sergius Bulgakov, the greatest Russian theologian of modern times, this book sheds new light on the mission and meaning of John the Baptist, commonly referred to in Orthodoxy as the ‘Forerunner of the Lord’.

Bulgakov traces the Baptist’s life from beginning to end – his birth in The Friend of The Bridegroom, his preaching of repentance, his baptism of the Lord, his agony, his death, and his veneration in the context of Eastern Orthodoxy. In addition to its use of the Gospel narratives, Bulgakov’s profound portrait of the Baptist is coloured by sacred tradition as it is embodied in patristic literature, in liturgy, and in iconography. Yet this is not a work of arcane scholarship intended just for academic readers. Typical of all of Bulgakov’s books, The Friend of the Bridegroom is steeped in devotional language and holy awe. In the words of translator Boris Jakim, it is “a work of prayer” that will stir the souls of Christians everywhere.

Author

Sergius Bulgakov (1871-1944) is widely regarded as the twentieth century’s leading Orthodox theologian. His other books include Relics and Miracles, Unfading Light, The Burning Bush, The Lamb of God, Icons and the Name of God, Jacob’s Ladder, and Churchly Joy.

Translator

Boris Jakim is the foremost translator of Russian religious thought into English. His published translations include works by S L Frank, Pavel Florensky, Vladimir Solovyov, and Sergius Bulgakov.