Hildegard von Bingen
Poet, philosopher, scientist, theologian, mystic,
healer, visionary, composer, advisor to popes and kings,
diplomat, judge, prophet, preacher, abbess, writer.
These are a few of the descriptions of a remarkable
woman — Hildegard von Bingen.
She was born the tenth child in a wealthy family in the German village of Bingen in 1098, and was dedicated to the church from very early in her childhood. From the age of eight, until her death at age 81 in 1179, she lived at a Benedictine abbey and eventually became its abbess. She was a prominent writer, composer,
healer, and poet. She was recognized and encouraged by Pope Eugenius as a visionary.
She was the first medieval woman known to reflect
on, and write about, women. Her writings were known throughout Europe and studied by those who wanted to understand her ecstatic visions of God.
900 years after her birth, Hildegard has been rediscovered.
Her piety, strength, and wisdom are as inspiring today as
they were in her own time.
Her writings are complex and sophisticated, and her music still sounds like the angels singing.
|
