The Holy war, made by King Shaddai upon Diabolus   By: John Bunyan (1628-1688)

John Bunyan's The Holy War, made by King Shaddai upon Diabolus, is a powerful and thought-provoking allegory that takes readers on a journey of spiritual warfare. As a sequel to Bunyan's more famous work, The Pilgrim's Progress, this book delves further into the battle between good and evil, exploring the consequences of sin and the ultimate victory of righteousness.

In The Holy War, the city of Mansoul becomes the backdrop for a fierce struggle between its rightful ruler, King Shaddai, and the usurper, Diabolus. Bunyan skillfully personifies these opposing forces, portraying the city itself as both a physical and symbolic representation of the human soul. Through vivid imagery and compelling storytelling, the author explores the inner conflicts faced by Mansoul as it battles against the temptations of pride, deceit, and rebellion.

One of the book's strengths is Bunyan's ability to weave together various biblical narratives to create a cohesive and captivating narrative. Drawing from both Old and New Testament imagery, he paints a vivid picture of the spiritual battles that take place within each individual. Additionally, his use of allegory allows readers to connect with the struggles faced by Mansoul, seeing parallels to their own spiritual journeys.

Bunyan's writing style is both poetic and straightforward, making the book accessible to readers of all backgrounds. His use of rich biblical language and theology adds depth and substance to the narrative, while his storytelling prowess keeps readers engaged throughout. The characters, ranging from prominent figures like Captain Boanerges to the ordinary townsfolk of Mansoul, are well-developed and relatable, adding a human element to the larger spiritual battle.

One aspect that may slightly detract from the overall experience is that at times the allegory can feel heavy-handed. While this was a common feature of Bunyan's writing during the Puritan era, some modern readers may find it overly didactic. However, this does not overshadow the central themes and messages conveyed throughout the book.

Overall, The Holy War is a compelling and spiritually enriching read. Bunyan's masterful storytelling, coupled with his insightful exploration of the human condition, creates a book that resonates long after the last page is turned. It serves as a reminder that the battle between good and evil exists not only in the external world but within the depths of each individual's soul.

First Page:

'Tis strange to me, that they that love to tell Things done of old, yea, and that do excel Their equals in historiology, Speak not of Mansoul's wars, but let them lie Dead, like old fables, or such worthless things, That to the reader no advantage brings: When men, let them make what they will their own, Till they know this, are to themselves unknown. Of stories, I well know, there's divers sorts, Some foreign, some domestic; and reports Are thereof made as fancy leads the writers: (By books a man may guess at the inditers.) Some will again of that which never was, Nor will be, feign (and that without a cause) Such matter, raise such mountains, tell such things Of men, of laws, of countries, and of kings; And in their story seem to be so sage, And with such gravity clothe every page, That though their frontispiece says all is vain, Yet to their way disciples they obtain. But, readers, I have somewhat else to do, Than with vain stories thus to trouble you. What here I say, some men do know so well, They can with tears and joy the story tell. The town of Mansoul is well known to many, Nor are her troubles doubted of by any That are acquainted with those Histories That Mansoul and her wars anatomize. Then lend thine ear to what I do relate, Touching the town of Mansoul and her state: How she was lost, took captive, made a slave: And how against him set, that should her save; Yea, how by hostile ways she did oppose Her Lord, and with his enemy did close... Continue reading book >>