The Postillae perpetuae in universam S. Scripturam stands as the first printed commentary on the Bible, establishing a foundational role for Nicholas of Lyra in medieval theology. Born in La Vieille-Lyre around 1270, this Franciscan scholar spent his professional life within the Kingdom of France, ultimately influencing the trajectory of European religious discourse through his focus on literal scriptural interpretation.
Academic and Ecclesiastical Career
Nicholas joined the Franciscan order at the convent of Verneuil-sur-Avre in 1291. His intellectual trajectory led him to the University of Paris, where he earned the status of doctor at the Sorbonne by 1309. His leadership within the order was solidified ten years later when he was appointed the head of all Franciscans in France. His work was conducted primarily in medieval Latin, reflecting the standard academic practices of his era.
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The core of his theological contribution lies in his insistence on the literal sense of Scripture. He argued that the literal interpretation must serve as the foundation for any allegorical or anagogical readings. In his pursuit of accuracy, he engaged with Hebrew texts and rabbinic commentaries, including the works of Rashi, while maintaining deference to the authority of the Catholic Church. This analytical approach, documented in works like the Commentarium in Danielem and the Super epistolam ad Gallatas, prioritized textual clarity over the elaborate, tortured readings common to his contemporaries.
Historical Impact of His Writings
The printed editions of his commentaries became essential tools for centuries of scholars. Following the 1471 Roman printing of his major commentary, volumes were produced in cities including Venice, Basel, and Strasbourg. His extensive output includes collections such as Sermones de tempore, Sermones de sanctis, and treatises such as De Messia ejusque adventu praeterito. His influence extended into the 16th century, with figures such as Martin Luther relying on his scholarship for their own lectures and writings.
Fast facts
- Born: 1270, La Vieille-Lyre
- Died: 1349, Paris
- Order: Franciscan
- Education: University of Paris
- Major Work: Postillae perpetuae in universam S. Scripturam
- Nationality: Kingdom of France
Questions readers ask
What was the significance of his commentary structure?
He utilized a layout where the biblical text occupied the upper center of the page, surrounded by his explanatory notes.
Did he know Hebrew?
Yes, he mastered Hebrew and incorporated findings from rabbinic commentaries into his biblical exegesis.
Achievements
- Notable work: Tractatus alter de visione divinae essentiae ab animabus sanctis a corpore separatis
- Notable work: Sermones de tempore
- Notable work: Sermones de sanctis
- Notable work: Super epistolam ad Gallatas
- Held posts at University of Paris
- Fields: theology and monastic life
