Monnica’s Bishop and the “filius istarum lacrimarum” (conf. 3,21)

Abstract

Augustine is known as “the son of tears.” This essay searches for the meaning of this expression. Based on conf. 3,21, first the background of the African bishop who spoke the winged words is analysed. Not only had he once been handed over to the Manichaeans as an oblate, but he had also become acquainted with their writings. Especially from this experience he gives his advice to Monnica: her son will come to the right insight legendo, i.e. by reading Manichaean texts. From Manichaean texts that recently have become known, some characteristic elements of conf. 3,21 and especially the expression “filius istarum lacrimarum” appear in a new light.