Externa

Externa

By Christian Windler

Book Description

In the vibrant, multicultural metropolis of Isfahan during the 17th and 18th centuries, European Catholic missionaries navigated a complex web of religious, diplomatic, and social relationships that would reshape their understanding of faith in practice. This comprehensive study reveals how these spiritual ambassadors adapted their mission beyond traditional evangelization, embracing roles as diplomatic intermediaries, gracious hosts to Protestant merchants, and healers serving Armenian and Muslim communities alike.

Drawing from extensive historical research, Christian Windler illuminates the remarkable flexibility these missionaries demonstrated while operating in the capital of the Safavid Empire. Rather than rigid adherence to prescribed religious boundaries, these men of faith discovered that cultural adaptation and social integration became essential tools for both survival and spiritual influence. Their willingness to serve diverse communities in unexpected ways earned them local acceptance and provided economic independence from distant Roman authorities.

The book examines how hope for the Shah's potential conversion motivated these missionaries to expand their understanding of religious service. Through detailed analysis of their multifaceted activities, readers discover how authentic spiritual work often requires embracing uncertainty, building bridges across cultural divides, and finding creative approaches to sharing one's faith.

This scholarly exploration offers valuable insights into the emerging global Catholic consciousness and demonstrates how genuine spiritual engagement flourishes when practitioners remain open to unexpected forms of service and connection across religious boundaries.

Who Is This For?

📖 Reading Level: Long (> 400 pages) (~21 hours)

📄 Length: 764 pages

What You'll Discover

  • ✓ Explore Christianity and other religions
  • ✓ Explore Catholic Church
  • ✓ Explore Missionaries
  • ✓ Explore Armenian church
  • ✓ Explore Relations
  • ✓ Explore Christianity
  • ✓ Explore Catholic church, relations
  • ✓ Explore Missions

Topics Covered

Christianity and other religions Catholic Church Missionaries Armenian church Relations Christianity Catholic church, relations Missions Islam Iran, religion History Catholic church, missions

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