Augustinian refers primarily to two related concepts rooted in the legacy of Augustine of Hippo (354–430 AD), a key Christian theologian and philosopher.
1. Augustinians (Religious Orders)
Augustinians are members of various Roman Catholic religious orders that follow the Rule of Saint Augustine, written by Augustine of Hippo around 400 AD. These orders include:
- Canons Regular : Clergy living a semi-monastic life with pastoral duties, organized into autonomous congregations.
- Mendicant Orders : Such as the Order of Saint Augustine (OSA), founded in 1244, also known as Augustinian Friars or Austin Friars. Other related orders include the Augustinian Recollects and Discalced Augustinians, which originated as reform movements
These communities live according to Augustine’s teachings, emphasizing harmony, community life, and service, inspired by the early Christian communities described in the Acts of the Apostles
2. Augustinianism (Theological and Philosophical System)
Augustinianism is the theological and philosophical system based on the teachings of Augustine of Hippo. It includes:
- The doctrines of total depravity (human nature deeply affected by sin) and divine sovereignty in salvation, meaning that salvation is entirely dependent on God's grace.
- The belief that humans cannot achieve salvation or choose good without God's grace, which is irresistible and effectual.
- The doctrine of predestination , where God elects those who will be saved, independent of human foreknowledge or action.
- Opposition to Pelagianism, which denied original sin and claimed humans could choose good without divine grace
Augustinianism has had a profound influence on Western Christianity, shaping Catholic orthodoxy and Protestant Reformers like Martin Luther and John Calvin, who found Augustine’s teachings aligned with biblical doctrine
Summary
- Augustinians : Members of religious orders following Augustine’s Rule, living communal, often semi-monastic or mendicant lives.
- Augustinianism : The theological system based on Augustine’s teachings about sin, grace, and salvation, emphasizing human dependence on God’s grace and predestination.
Both reflect the enduring impact of Augustine of Hippo on Christian spirituality, theology, and religious life
