A Practical Commentary on Holy Scripture - The Saint Austin Press

DESCRIPTION OF THE BOOK

Practical and rich in doctrine, this is the perfect one-volume Biblical commentary for anyone wanting to revisit the eternal truths of the Sacred Scriptures.

Originally written by German Roman Catholic bishop Frederick Justus Knecht (1839–1921) for catechists in the late 19th century, this commentary emerged during a time when German Catholicism was celebrated for its blend of learning, piety, and orthodoxy. It has been praised as "the best antidote to the poison of Bible Criticism." What sets this work apart is Bishop Knecht’s firm belief that the Bible is the true Word of God. Rather than delving into speculative questions or downplaying the miraculous, he offers meaty insights into the moral and spiritual lessons found in biblical episodes, guiding readers on how to apply these lessons in their daily lives. Alongside these practical insights, he presents rich doctrinal teachings that illuminate the mind. The commentary also connects the Bible to the spiritual and liturgical life of the Catholic Church today, showing the continuity of Catholicism as the Church of the Scriptures.

Comprehensive at more than 800 pages yet divided into short chapters ideal for daily reading, this Commentary is a fascinating read and an unbeatable catechetical resource for adults and children. The best testimony to its excellence is that it has remained in print for more than a hundred years.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Friedrich Justus Knecht was born in 1839 in Bruchsal, near Karlsruhe, Germany. Baptized a Protestant, he was brought up Catholic at the request of his mother. He was ordained in 1862 and served in the Archdiocese of Freiburg. He enjoyed considerable success as a teacher and administrator in the school system there, and had an active role in the Catholic resistance to Bismarck's Kulturkampf. Towards the end of his life he was auxiliary bishop of Freiburg. Knecht died in 1921 and was buried in Freiburg Cathedral.