Belgian scholar Th.J. Lamy (1827-1907), also known for other publications in Syriac studies, in this work for which he was awarded a doctoral degree, studies questions on the Eucharist according to Syriac texts. The first part of the work is a general examination of the data from both east and west Syriac sources side-by-side with other patristic material, including martyrdom texts. The second, and largest, part of the work is a presentation of the canons and resolutions from two authors of the west Syriac tradition, John of Tella (482-538), responsible for building up the Miaphysite church at a crucial period, and Jacob of Edessa (d. 708), whose name is well known for his work in many genres. Here the Syriac texts are given together with a facing Latin translation and a lengthy series of annotations to them. The book closes with a subject and author index, and an index of Syriac words discussed. This substantial work will be welcomed by students and scholars of Syriac literature, ecclesiastical law, and church history.
Thomas JosephLamy