3691 Bede
Bede, Venerable (3691)
Bede, also known as Saint Bede, the Venerable Bede, or simply Bede (c. 672/673 – 26 May 735), was an English Benedictine monk at the monastery of Saint Peter and its companion monastery of Saint Paul, both at Jarrow in the Kingdom of Northumbria (now part of Tyne and Wear, England). He is one of the most important Anglo-Saxon scholars and historians, and is regarded as the "Father of English History."
Life and Work:
Born in Northumbria, Bede entered the monastery at Wearmouth at the age of seven and later moved to Jarrow, a sister monastery. He remained there for the rest of his life, dedicating himself to prayer, study, and writing. He was ordained a deacon at age 19 and a priest at age 30.
Bede was a prolific writer, producing works on a wide range of subjects including theology, history, science, and grammar. His writings are characterized by their thoroughness, accuracy, and clarity. He drew upon a vast range of sources, including classical texts, early Christian writers, and contemporary accounts.
Historia Ecclesiastica Gentis Anglorum:
Bede's most famous work is the Historia Ecclesiastica Gentis Anglorum (Ecclesiastical History of the English People), completed in 731. This is a comprehensive history of England from the time of Julius Caesar to Bede's own day. It is a valuable source of information about the early history of England, including the conversion of the Anglo-Saxons to Christianity. The Historia Ecclesiastica is considered a foundational text for understanding early English history and culture.
Other Works:
In addition to the Historia Ecclesiastica, Bede wrote numerous other works, including:
- Commentaries on the Bible
- Hagiographies (biographies of saints)
- Works on grammar and rhetoric
- Scientific treatises on timekeeping and astronomy
Legacy:
Bede's influence on English history and culture is immense. He is revered as a scholar, historian, and saint. His writings have been studied and admired for centuries, and his Historia Ecclesiastica remains an essential source for understanding early English history. He was declared a Doctor of the Church in 1899. His feast day is celebrated on May 25.