About this book
Barlaam and Ioasaph by Saint John of Damascus opens a luminous medieval romance that reimagines a timeless spiritual journey through myth, wisdom, and love. Rooted in the hagiographic tradition, the tale follows the sheltered prince Ioasaph and his transformative encounters with the holy hermit Barlaam, tracing a path from worldly power to inner awakening through mentorship, faith, and sacrifice.
Blending elements of literature, romance, and myths/legends, the story explores universal themes—the clash between courtly life and ascetic wisdom, the search for truth, and the redemptive power of spiritual love. Traditionally attributed to Saint John of Damascus (c. 675–749) and widely translated across medieval Europe, the narrative also reflects cross-cultural currents: scholars note its resonance with the Buddha legend and its transmission through Greek, Georgian, Arabic, Latin, and Slavonic versions. The result is a richly layered medieval classic that shaped devotional imagination for centuries without losing its narrative charm.
Ideal for listeners who enjoy historical literature, religious romance, and mythic retellings, Barlaam and Ioasaph offers a haunting, contemplative experience—perfect for anyone intrigued by medieval spirituality, comparative religion, or the enduring power of conversion stories.
