This post features an image of a drawing I did, which was copied from another drawing by the German master Albrecht Durer. His drawing is a portrait of a man of ninety-three who used to study a painting of Saint Jerome. The original was done in brush and black ink, heightened with white, on gray violet paper, and is in the Albertina Museum in Vienna. My copy was drawn with black and white Prismacolor colored pencils on gray paper and is located on the lowest shelf of a bookcase adjacent to my cat’s scratchpad. I have talked about Albrecht Durer before. I also spoke about the Albertina Museum in Vienna, Austria. But I don’t think I’ve talked about who this Saint Jerome person these drawings are supposed to represent. I don’t know who St. Jerome is; I’ve only been to church a handful of times. But I digress; let’s ask Microsoft’s Co-pilot, which is an AI generator or something, about St. Jerome.
Me: Who is Saint Jerome?
Co-pilot: Saint Jerome, born around 347 in Stridon (likely near modern-day Croatia or Slovenia), is renowned as a Christian scholar, theologian, and translator. He is best known for translating the Bible into Latin, which became the official Latin Bible for the Catholic Church.
Jerome’s life was marked by his dedication to monasticism and scholarship. He spent time as a hermit, became a priest, and served as secretary to Pope Damasus I. Around 389, he established a monastery in Bethlehem. His extensive writings include biblical commentaries, theological works, and letters, which profoundly influenced Christian thought.
Me: That all sounds boilerplate. Let’s get to some good stuff! Did he face any controversies during his lifetime?
Copilot: Yes, Saint Jerome faced several controversies during his lifetime:
Conflict with Rufinus: Jerome had a significant falling out with his former friend and fellow scholar. This conflict was largely due to differing views on the works of Origen, an early Christian theologian. Jerome initially admired Origen but later criticized his teachings, leading to a bitter dispute with Rufinus, who remained an Origen supporter.
Dispute with Bishop John of Jerusalem: Jerome also had a contentious relationship with Bishop John of Jerusalem. This was partly due to the same Origenist controversy, as Bishop John was sympathetic to Origen’s views.
Accusations of Impropriety: After the death of his patron, Pope Damasus I, Jerome faced accusations of having improper relations with a wealthy widow named Paula. These allegations, his strict ascetic practices, and his outspoken nature led to his departure from Rome.
Pelagian Controversy: Jerome was involved in the Pelagian controversy, opposing Pelagius’s teachings, which minimized the role of divine grace in salvation. Jerome’s writings against Pelagianism were among his most vigorous and influential1.
Criticism of His Translations: Jerome’s translation of the Bible into Latin (the Vulgate) was not without its critics. Some accused him of altering sacred texts and following Jewish interpretations too closely.
Despite these controversies, Jerome’s scholarly contributions and dedication to monasticism have left a lasting legacy in Christian history.
And then Microsoft Co-pilot gave me samples of some more prompts:
Is there a controversy you find most exciting or want to know more about?
Tell me more about the Pelagian controversy.
What were Jerome’s views on asceticism?
Did he have any other notable conflicts with fellow scholars?
Ask me anything…
Me: I’m exhausted. That is all for today.
Copilot: I understand taking a break when you need it is essential. Rest well, and feel free to reach out whenever you have more questions or want to chat. Have a great day!
