Bede: Commentary on Revelation

This book presents a detailed translation of Bede's Commentary on Revelation, exploring its historical and theological significance in medieval scholarship.

This book offers a comprehensive annotated translation of Bede's earliest Biblical commentary, specifically focusing on his Commentary on Revelation. The text is prefaced by an in-depth Introduction that situates Bede within the context of Revelation exegesis, exploring the reasons behind his choice to tackle this particularly contentious book of the Bible. As Bede embarked on this ambitious project, he was a young monastic scholar operating in a newly Christianized society, making his insights all the more significant.

The Commentary on Revelation addresses the climactic themes of creation, redemption, and the nature of time, which are central to Bede's scholarly pursuits. These themes not only highlight Bede’s theological concerns but also reflect his broader achievements as a historian, exegete, and preacher. Written around 703, this commentary emerges during a period rife with speculation about the end of the world, as many believed that nearly 6000 years had passed since creation. Bede adeptly navigates these anxieties, arguing against the temptation to predict the end times.

Instead of presenting Revelation as a straightforward prophecy, Bede interprets it as a symbolic meditation on the enduring struggles faced by the Church. This translation, enriched with a substantial Introduction, will captivate students of medieval religious and cultural history, particularly those interested in Anglo-Saxon England and the evolution of Biblical exegesis during the Middle Ages.