ABSTRACT
Blackwell Basil's sweeping vision can be summed up in short compass, and it centers on the human person. Basil shares the view of the ancient church that the Scriptures are inspired by God, and he thinks of inspiration as primarily prophetic and oracular. Most of Basil's spiritual readings are christological, but a good many are ecclesial or sacramental. Natural science takes on a more positive role when Basil speaks of the behavior of animals who serve in some measure as models to be imitated or examples to be avoided. The disciple's renunciation, for Basil, must involve the renunciation of material possessions, and it applies to all and not just the extravagantly wealthy. Basil's understanding of this monastic life has certain salient features. Basil also elaborated the conditions of admission to the community. Basil is the experienced Christian whose advice in matters of holiness, virtue, sin, and the interpretation of Scripture is sought out by others.
