The City of God

The City of God is a philosophical and theological work written by Augustine of Hippo between 413 and 426 AD, following the sack of Rome by the Visigoths.

Augustine wrote the book in response to claims that Christianity had weakened the Roman Empire. He argues that Rome’s decline was not caused by the Christian faith and examines the moral and spiritual failures of pagan society.

The work contrasts two symbolic communities: the earthly city, shaped by self-interest and the pursuit of worldly power, and the City of God, founded on love of God and the hope of eternal life. These two cities coexist throughout human history but are guided by opposing values.

Combining history, philosophy, politics, and theology, The City of God presents a broad interpretation of human civilization and defends the belief that true peace and justice cannot be achieved through earthly empires alone.

"The glorious city of God is my theme in this work, which you, my dearest son Marcellinus,25 suggested, and which is due to you by my promise. I have undertaken its defence against those who prefer their own gods to the Founder of this city—a city surpassingly glorious, whether we view it as it still lives by faith in this fleeting course of time, and sojourns as a stranger in the midst of the ungodly, or as it shall dwell in the fixed stability of its eternal seat, which it now with patience waits for, expecting until “righteousness shall return unto judgment,”26 and it obtain, by virtue of its excellence, final victory and perfect peace."

This edition of The City of God was translated into English by Marcus Dods, George Wilson, and J. J. Smith.