The Commentary on the Diatessaron

Nearly seventeen centuries ago, in the desert cities of the Syriac-speaking world, a deacon and poet named Ephrem set out to open the gospel to ordinary believers. The Diatessaron—Tatian's single, flowing harmony of the four Gospels—had become the scripture of his church. Ephrem's Commentary leads readers through that unified narrative: from the Word's entry into the world and the mystery of the incarnation, through miracles, parables, and the long road to the cross, to the glory of the resurrection. With the eye of a poet and the heart of a pastor, he reads the Old Testament as a web of signs, and finds in bread, oil, water, and light the presence of Christ. This edition renders his ancient Syriac voice in clear, present-day English, faithful to its meaning and spirit. A short introduction, glossary, and reading guide make it easy for today's readers. Part of The World Scriptures Library.