Meditations of the Heart: The Psalms in Early Christian Thought and Practice

The Psalms are one of the most important biblical texts in Patristic exegesis, commentary, preaching, liturgical practice and theological reflection. Their language and imagery  is all-pervasive; they were not only interpreted by the fathers but a good deal of Patristic exegetical practice actually evolved from engagement with them; they directly informed Christological and Ecclesiological reflection; were central to early monasticism; inspired early Christian poetry and provided material for liturgical chant, prayers, hymns and penitential or doxological expression. This volume of essays on the Psalms in Early Christian Thought and Practice is offered with profound gratitude, admiration and respect by colleagues and friends of Professor Andrew Louth FBA, to honour his long and immensely distinguished career as priest, teacher and prolific author in almost every aspect of Greek and Latin Patristics.