Der heilige Nikolaus, Bischof von Myra

Few saints enjoy greater popularity and veneration than Saint Nicholas. But who was Nicholas, really? No specific episode from his life or significant works can be historically pinpointed. Thus, who Nicholas was or what deeds he may have accomplished eludes historical access. Unlike other saints, Nicholas was soon after his death revered as a saint par excellence, as a "super-saint," a helper in every need: he was considered to be already infused with heavenly glorification during his earthly life and now works divine salvation in manifold abundance from heaven. Starting from the first account of Nicholas's great deed, his veneration has spread in many forms, in the West and East, from then until today. Because a variety of folklore has grown around the figure of Saint Nicholas over this long journey, it is worthwhile to trace back to the roots. The book approaches the figure of Saint Nicholas from several perspectives: from history, through legends, and with the help of theology. The text outlines the emergence and rapid spread of his veneration and offers the most famous legends from the 6th and 9th centuries in a literal translation from the original.