Hildegard of Bingen

by Hildegard von Bingen, Mirabai Starr (Editor)

Hildegard of Bingen was perhaps the original "rebel nun"-a woman of stunning visionary gifts who rose above the restrictions of her time to shape the destiny of Christianity. In Hildegard of Bingen, readers encounter this remarkable woman, who dared to speak out with such strength and purpose that even the 12th-century Church had to respect her divinely inspired wisdom. Through her writings, her musical and lyrical compositions, and her compassionate bravery, Hildegard invites us today to a place of stillness where we can clearly hear the inner wisdom that is our birthright. Hildegard's life gives us a blueprint for spiritual practice in action. From her many innovative writings on the spiritual journey, women's health, and herbal medicine, to her courage to admonish world rulers to choose peace instead of war, she shines across the centuries as an example of how to live fearlessly our own limitless radiance. Hildegard of Bingen brings readers into the presence of this heroic woman, in a devotional treasure that will find a welcome place on any personal altar, shrine, or bedside table.

Genres: Christianity, Nonfiction

125 pages, Hardcover

First published March 1, 2008

About the author

born circa 1098

People revered Saint Hildegard von Bingen, German nun, composer, and a visionary, during her own lifetime; she set her poems to music and also wrote works on medicine and natural history.

People also knew this philosopher, Christian mystic, Benedictine abbess, and polymath as Sibyl of the Rhine. Her fellows elected her as a magistra in 1136; she founded the monasteries of Rupertsberg in 1150 and Eibingen in 1165. The Ordo Virtutum exemplifies early liturgical drama.

Her theological and botanical texts, letters, liturgical songs, and arguably the oldest morality play, well survive; she meanwhile supervised brilliant miniature Illuminations.

Reviews

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a beautiful little book--not just Hildegard's words, but Mirabai's. She approaches Hildegard's life and work with reverence, distilling her story and ideas into near poetry. It's one I'll return to again and again.

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Actually 3.5 stars. A beautiful introduction to an extremely talented, startlingly profound, and amazing mystic whose words, art, and music still resonate today. I would've appreciated more context and guidance such as in Starr's other books on early mystics. Still, an inspiring and gorgeous little book.

[Jai Tanner · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Tiny Tome with Lovely Offerings

I found poems, reflections and lyrics written by and about Hildegard that I could not find anywhere else. Mirabai Starr’s translation is absolutely lovely.

[LeTsunami · Rating 3 out of 5]

Short book. Decent overview of Hildegard of Bingen.
Do not expect a in depth historical biographical of Hildegard or to understand any one of her works. It gives you a very rough feel of what she believed and did in her time.
It’s like tidbits of information and prayer pieces.

[Ephrem Arcement · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a lovely little collection that whets the pallet for more of this fiery woman of God.

[Marcia Claesson · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet little book to pick up and read a bit at a time. Hildegard is fascinating.

[Karin Jenkins · Rating 4 out of 5]

A selection of uplifting and intriguing passages from the writings of Hildegard with comments by the author. A great source for passages for Lectio and discussion.