Commentary on the Apocalypse

The 13th century Egypt saw a circle of Coptic theologians who passionately endeavored toward the revival of the Coptic Orthodox Church. Bishop Bulus al-Bushi was among those notable church treasures, and dedicated much of his effort to biblical exegesis. In this book, readers will gauge one of his largest works entitled “Commentary on the Apocalypse” which presents a dogmatic and pastoral interpretation of the biblical text.

This English translation honors the work of the late Abbot of St Macarius Monastery, Bishop Epiphanius (1954-2018), who published an Arabic edition of al-Bushi’s commentary in 2017.

The young Australian scholar Shadi Kiryakos Nessim honors both bishops, Būlus and Epiphanius, with the present volume: a translation of Epiphanius’ edition of Būlus’ Commentary on the Apocalypse into very readable English, with helpful notes. It is a labor of love, one that should make the work accessible to a wide range of readers.

– Mark N. Swanson

For truly the wisest among the pure ones long for the glory of God. At that time, the mind rejects all worldly obstacles and all that prevents him from a virtuous life. God sees the measure of love that is offered toward Him and that nothing has affected his love for Him. It is then that God completely manifests Himself to him by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit in his soul. It is this same powerful Spirit who is equal in essence with the Father and the Son. The person becomes a dwelling place for God by the Spirit. Scripture is thus fulfilled in him which says, “Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God” (Matt. 5:8)

This book has been translated from Arabic, Introduction and Commentary by Shadi Kiryakos Nessim, Foreword by Mark N. Swanson, Afterword by Joseph M. Faltas.