John Scotus Eriugena was one of the most radical thinkers of the early Middle Ages — a philosopher who fused eastern and western Christian theology with Neoplatonism to create a vision of God, nature, and creation centuries that is breathtaking and unique. In this episode, we explore his masterwork Periphyseon (On the Division of Nature), his controversial ideas on negative theology, and why the Church eventually condemned his work as heretical.
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Sources/Recommended Reading:
Carabine, Deirdre (2000). \"John Scottus Eriugena\". Oxford University Press USA.
Laird, Martin (2004). \"Gregory of Nyssa and the grasp of faith: union, knowledge and divine presence\". Oxford University Press.
Luibheid, Colm (Translated by) (1987). \"Pseudo-Dionysius: The Complete Works\". Classics of Western Spirituality. Paulist Press International.
McGinn, Bernard. \"The Presence of God\" Series, in several volumes. Perhaps the best and most comprehensive introduction to Christian mysticism. Published by Crossroad Publishing Co.
Sheldon-Williams, I.P. & John J. O'Meara (translated and edited by) (2025). \"Periphyseon: The Division of Nature\". Dumbarton Oaks Research Library & Collection. (This is the translation used for the Periphyseon except when noted).
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