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What does it mean to convert? To convert in this context involves the change of one's religion or beliefs to another, with the aim of achieving spiritual rebirth. Specifically, St. Augustine converted from paganism and Manicheanism to Christian Catholicism. The notion of conversion here signifies a profound transformation in spiritual orientation and worldview that influences one’s life and subsequent theological contributions.

Augustine’s moment of conversion occurred around the age of 31. At that time, he was a follower of Manicheanism—a religion that viewed the world as a battleground between good and evil spirits. His conversion was precipitated after moving to Italy in 384 AD, where he encountered Bishop Ambrose. Augustine was influenced by Ambrose’s biblical teachings and the narratives he heard from friends and witnesses, especially a reading from Ponticianus about the life of Anthony the Great, a Christian ascetic. Most notably, Augustine’s conversion was catalyzed by an internal spiritual moment where he heard a child's voice urging him to "Take up and read," leading him to interpret this as divine guidance towards the Christian scriptures (St. Augustine, Confessions).

Prior to this moment, Augustine was immersed in philosophical inquiry and spiritual questioning. He believed in the Manichean principle that the universe was a battleground between two equal and opposing forces of good and evil. His conversion marked a decisive transition from these dualistic beliefs to embracing the Christian doctrine of one divine being—God—who governs the universe and embodies the ultimate good and truth. Consequently, Augustine’s conversion was both a spiritual and philosophical rebirth that profoundly impacted his later theological writings and his role within Christianity.

The transition from Manicheanism to Catholicism was transformational. In Manicheanism, the emphasis was on perpetual conflict between opposing cosmic forces, with little room for divine intervention or God's personal involvement. Christianity, adopted by Augustine through his conversion, offered a monotheistic faith centered on a personal, omniscient, and omnipotent God who sustains and governs creation. This shift facilitated Augustine’s development as a theologian, philosopher, and author, whose writings—most notably his "Confessions" and "The City of God"—have become foundational in Western theological thought. His conversion narrative underscores the power of divine inspiration and internal spiritual awakening, which continue to influence Christian thought and practice.

How the painting reflects Saint Augustine’s life

The painting titled "Consecration of Saint Augustine" vividly captures the moment when Augustine was declared Bishop. The divine elements surrounding him—the golden motifs in the background, the ornate robes, and the scripture in his hand—symbolize his spiritual authority and divine endorsement. The artwork reflects his life journey from a pagan philosopher and Manichean to a revered Christian bishop and theologian whose ideas significantly shaped Christianity.

Before his conversion, Augustine was a thinker immersed in dualistic philosophies, which questioned the nature of good and evil. The expressions of the attendees in the painting—some contemplative, some hesitant—represent the divided acceptance of his new role and his ideas. His face, often depicted as calm and contemplative, signifies his internal transformation and divine guidance. The presence of divine figures and the emphasis on scripture in the painting highlight how Augustine’s life was guided by divine inspiration and biblical authority.

The attire Augustine wears—a bishop’s robe adorned with intricate religious symbolism—signifies his authority and the respect accorded to him in Christian circles. The painting’s grand and divine setting underscores how Augustine’s contributions were seen as divinely inspired and pivotal to the Church and broader theological discourse. His role as a critic of certain interpretations of scripture, such as the doctrine of original sin, established him as a thinker willing to question and interpret religious teachings, helping to shape the doctrinal development of Christianity. This leadership, rooted in spiritual insight, is vividly captured in the painting’s regal and spiritual imagery, emphasizing Augustine’s lasting influence on Christianity and Western thought.

In essence, the painting encapsulates Augustine’s transformation from a seeker of truth in philosophy and pagan beliefs to a foundational figure in Christianity, whose spiritual journey and theological insights continue to resonate today. The divine motifs, regal attire, and solemn expressions of the attendees reflect the gravity and divine authority of his ecclesiastical and philosophical legacy. His influence extended beyond religion into politics, philosophy, and culture, cementing his status as a pivotal figure whose life was marked by divine inspiration and intellectual rigor.

References

• Chao, L. (2017). Augustine’s Analysis of Amor Laudis: A Case Study of the Supreme Drive in Roman Political Life. Radical Orthodoxy: Theology, Philosophy, Politics, 4(2).
• Maurer, C. (2018). Healing through Humility: An Examination of Augustine's Confessions. The Holy Bible, Rom 13:13-14.
• St. Augustine. (n.d.). Confessions. Translated by Betty Radice. Oxford University Press.
• Brown, P. (2000). The Rise of Western Christendom: Triumph and Diversity, AD 200–1000. Wiley-Blackwell.
• Chadwick, H. (1986). Augustine. Oxford University Press.
• Markus, R. A. (1990). Saint Augustine: A Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.
• Brachtendorf, B. (2017). Augustine's Confessions: An Introduction and Critique. Cambridge University Press.
• Dodaro, R. (2004). Augustine’s City of God and the Contingency of the State. Cambridge University Press.
• Stowers, S. (2004). Augustine and the Limits of Virtue. Harvard University Press.
• Kretzmann, N. (2012). Divine Authority in Augustine’s Confessions. Harvard Theological Review.