Catholic Saints St. John Damascene
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Dec 4, 2025 Dr. Benner Schramm, a Scripture scholar at the Augustine Institute, dives deep into the life and impact of St. John of Damascus. He explores the fascinating context of John's upbringing during Islamic conquests and his elite education. The discussion highlights John's fierce defense of icons amid the iconoclasm controversy, culminating in his persecution. Benner also touches on John's theological writings, including his arguments against heresy and contributions to Christian-Muslim dialogue. The episode wraps with insights into John’s devotion to Mary and the richness of Eastern traditions.
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Theologian In A Plural World
- St. John of Damascus combined elite Greek theological training with life under Islamic rule to serve the Church effectively.
- His background shows theological formation can flourish even as Christians live as minorities in non-Christian societies.
Incarnation Grounds Icon Veneration
- John defended icons by linking them to the incarnation: because Christ took flesh, material depiction can convey truth.
- He argued icons deserve reverence without confusing the image for the divine reality.
The 'Three Hands' Miracle
- John allegedly had his hand cut off after false accusations and then experienced its miraculous restoration after praying before an icon.
- He commemorated the event by adding a silver hand to the icon, inspiring the Eastern 'three hands' image.
