Acedia and its discontents
Book • 2015
R.
J. Snell's 'Acedia and Its Discontents' examines the historical theological concept of acedia—often translated as sloth—and traces how spiritual boredom and despair have manifested from monastic contexts into modern culture.
The book argues that acedia is not mere laziness but a rejection of ordered life and one's place within covenantal and social structures.
Snell connects classical sources (like Evagrius and Aquinas) with contemporary phenomena of restlessness and purposeless activity, showing how desire and autonomy fuel metaphysical boredom.
He offers both historical exposition and theological reflection to help readers understand and respond to this malaise today.
Overall, the work reframes sloth as a deep spiritual disorder with public and personal consequences.
J. Snell's 'Acedia and Its Discontents' examines the historical theological concept of acedia—often translated as sloth—and traces how spiritual boredom and despair have manifested from monastic contexts into modern culture.
The book argues that acedia is not mere laziness but a rejection of ordered life and one's place within covenantal and social structures.
Snell connects classical sources (like Evagrius and Aquinas) with contemporary phenomena of restlessness and purposeless activity, showing how desire and autonomy fuel metaphysical boredom.
He offers both historical exposition and theological reflection to help readers understand and respond to this malaise today.
Overall, the work reframes sloth as a deep spiritual disorder with public and personal consequences.
Mentioned by
Mentioned in 0 episodes
Mentioned by ![undefined]()
Lexy Sauvé
God Told You To Do This
