Abstract

In the writings of St. Augustine, the Latin word cor occurs more than
8,000 times, being one of the most important, though ambiguous, terms of
his anthropology and spirituality. As a synonym for the inner man (homo
interior) it encompasses the whole life: affective, intellectual, moral and
religious. In this sense, it is the privileged place for a personal encounter
with God.
Analysis of Augustine’s writings reveals a link between the concept of
the Trinity and indications concerning the spiritual life of man. Reflections
on the “heart” can be put into a kind of triptych: creation “in the image
of God”, enlightenment by Christ, and expansion by the Holy Spirit. The
impact of God on the human heart should find their completion in a voluntarily
adopted attitude of adoration, humility and love.