Alonso de Espina facts for kids
Alonso de Espina was a Spanish Franciscan preacher and writer. He lived a long time ago, from around 1410 until after 1464. He is best known for writing a book called Fortalitium Fidei. This book was like a guide for people to argue against ideas that went against the Catholic faith.
About Alonso de Espina
Alonso de Espina was a very learned man. He was in charge of the House of Studies for the Friars Minor in Salamanca, Spain, for many years. Some people used to think he had converted from Judaism. However, newer studies suggest he was not a convert.
His Famous Book: Fortalitium Fidei
Alonso de Espina was a well-known preacher. But his most famous achievement was writing Fortalitium Fidei. This title means "Fortress of Faith."
He started writing Fortalitium Fidei in 1458. He kept adding to it until 1464. An edition published in 1485 began with a note. It said: "Here begins the introduction to 'Fortress of Faith' written by a distinguished teacher of the Order of Friars Minor in the year 1459."
At first, the book was published without the author's name. This led to some debate about who wrote it. Fortalitium Fidei was a detailed guide. It offered different types of arguments. These arguments were for preachers and others. They were meant to challenge those who disagreed with Catholicism.
The book was divided into five main parts:
- The first part argued against those who did not believe in the divinity of Jesus.
- The second part was against "heretics" (people with different religious beliefs).
- The third part focused on arguments against Jews.
- The fourth part was directed at Muslims.
- The fifth part gave instructions on how to fight against evil influences. In this section, Alonso wrote about demons. He discussed their dislike for people. He also wrote about their power over humans. He explained how this power was lessened by Christ's victory.
Other Writings
Alonso de Espina also published at least three other works:
- Sermones de Nomine Jesu Vigintiduos: This book of sermons was released around 1454.
- Sermones plures de excellentia nostræ fidei: These were sermons he preached in 1459.
- A book about fortune: This work was dedicated to John I of Castile.
In a book called The Complete Book of Devils and Demons, Leonard R. N. Ashley mentions Alonso. He says Alonso stated a very specific number. This was the number of angels who joined Lucifer's rebellion. Alonso reportedly said it was 133,306,668. Ashley also notes that the Book of Enoch gives a different number, 200.
See also
In Spanish: Alonso de Espina para niños
