The Epic of Divine Wisdom by Maphrian Gregory Barhebraeus (1225/6-1286): Critical edition, translation and interpretation

The Epic of Divine Wisdom is a lengthy enigmatic poem written in the Syriac language by the Maphrian of the West-Syrian church Gregory Barhebraeus (1225-6/1286), in which he relates his assiduous pursuit of Wisdom, metaphorically represented by a beautiful maiden. After many adventures, his quest leads him to meet Jesus Christ, who explains to him why He came to earth and indicates to him the way to reach his beloved. Describing a universal journey which transcends the limitations of time and space, the Epic is entirely composed of coded allusions to biblical and theological motives which call to be carefully deciphered. Surprisingly, this major Christian allegoric text has not been critically edited nor translated into any modern Western language. The proposed project will contribute to its revival through the production of a critical edition, translation and detailed exegesis.