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Barlaam and Ioasaph · Chapter

The Tale explained

This introductory chapter discusses the origins and nature of the Barlaam and Ioasaph story, noting its derivation from the legend of Buddha and its adaptation by Eastern Christians.

What happens

This introductory chapter discusses the origins and nature of the Barlaam and Ioasaph story, noting its derivation from the legend of Buddha and its adaptation by Eastern Christians. It highlights the author's aim to glorify Christian monasticism, the renunciation of worldly wealth, and the defense of image veneration against the Iconoclastic movement. The chapter also outlines the book's structure of narrative, speeches, and parables, and reflects on its historical popularity and subsequent decline.

Themes in this chapter

  • The Monastic Ideal

    The chapter emphasizes the glorification of Christian monasticism as the main aim of the author, with complete devotion to religious contemplation and renunciation of wealth and pleasure.

  • Renunciation of Worldly Wealth

    The chapter describes the ideal of renouncing wealth and pleasure and mortifying the flesh as central to the monastic life celebrated in the story.

Characters to notice

  • Barlaam

    Mentioned as a saint whose name appears in the Calendars; the story is about his life and that of Ioasaph.

  • Ioasaph

    Mentioned as a saint whose name appears in the Calendars; the story is about his life and that of Barlaam.

Key passages

  • “The aim of the Buddhist monk is mainly negative⁠—deliverance from the evils of the flesh; that of the Christian has also a positive aspect⁠—surrender of the semblance of happiness in this world in order to gain the reality hereafter, the “ ἀπόρρητα ἀγαθά ” laid up for the righteous in Heaven.”

    Buddhist monasticism focuses on escaping physical suffering, while Christian monasticism also involves giving up worldly pleasures to attain true heavenly rewards.

    Contrast between Buddhist and Christian monastic aims.

  • “The main aim of the author was the glorification of this Christian monasticism. Marriage, the cares of social and business life, the duties of citizenship⁠—all these, though not represented as inconsistent with Christian living, appear only as a second best.”

    The author's primary goal was to praise Christian monastic life, viewing marriage and worldly duties as acceptable but inferior to the monastic ideal.

    Author's emphasis on monasticism as the highest Christian calling.

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