Introduction
Introduction
This chapter focuses on Book X of Augustine's The City of God, which talks about demons that are in part identical with the lesser gods or 'good angels'. It argues that to achieve the blessed life an individual must worship the one true God alone. It also introduces the Neoplatonist Plotinus and his doctrine of 'illumination', which symbolizes the Creator. The chapter analyzes the importance of sacrifice as a cardinal feature of worship and the concept of sacrifice directed towards the true God. It explains true sacrifice as a work of mercy undertaken for God's sake, of which by such works sacrifice is offered in individuals or in a community.
Keywords: Book X, Augustine, The City of God, Neoplatonist Plotinus, illumination, sacrifice
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