# Chapter XXXIII: Ioasaph's Kingship and the Triumph of Christianity explained — Barlaam and Ioasaph

> Chapter companion for Barlaam and Ioasaph by Anonymous.

## What happens

King Abenner, bewildered by his son's steadfast faith, follows the counsel of Araches to divide his kingdom with Ioasaph. Ioasaph accepts, becomes king over half the realm, and immediately begins to destroy idolatrous temples, build churches, and convert his subjects. He baptizes many, heals the sick, and establishes a Christian kingdom, while also practicing almsgiving and humility. His fame spreads, drawing even his father's subjects to the true faith.

## Themes in this chapter

### Idolatry vs. True Worship

Ioasaph demolishes idolatrous temples and altars, erects churches, and leads his subjects to worship Christ, contrasting the error of idolatry with the truth of Christianity.

### Renunciation of Worldly Wealth

Ioasaph distributes his money to the poor, frees captives and debtors, and considers himself a stranger and pilgrim, prioritizing heavenly treasure over earthly riches.

### Divine Providence and Free Will

Ioasaph's decision to accept the divided kingdom is framed as obedience to his father where no danger to his salvation exists, showing the interplay of human choice and divine guidance.

## Character check-ins

### Ioasaph

Accepts the divided kingdom, destroys idols, builds churches, baptizes converts, and rules with humility and righteousness.

### Abenner

Bewildered by his son's refusal to abandon Christianity, he agrees to divide the kingdom on the advice of Araches.

### Araches

The chief councillor who advises King Abenner to divide the kingdom with Ioasaph rather than resort to violence.

### Theudas

Mentioned as a magician who challenges Ioasaph in a later chapter, but not present in this excerpt.

## Key lines

> He was not minded to be reverenced and feared for the grandeur of his power and kingly magnificence, but rather for his humility and meekness.

Ioasaph sought to be respected for his humility and gentleness, not for the splendor of his royal authority.

_Highlights Ioasaph's Christ-like leadership style._

> For this is the end of good kingship, to be king and lord over pleasure—which end also he achieved.

The true goal of a good king is to master his own desires, and Ioasaph accomplished this.

_Emphasizes the theme of self-mastery as the essence of virtuous rule._

> He knew that the possessor of great authority is bound to imitate the giver of that authority, according to his ability; and herein he shall best imitate God, if he hold nothing in higher honour than mercy.

Ioasaph understood that those in power should reflect God's character, especially by valuing mercy above all else.

_Connects earthly kingship to divine example, stressing mercy as the highest virtue._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barlaam_and_ioasaph_se/chapters/xxxiii
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barlaam_and_ioasaph_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/barlaam_and_ioasaph_se/chapters