Dialogi contra Pelagianos

The Dialogi contra Pelagianos (Dialogues Against the Pelagians) is a work by Saint Jerome, a prominent biblical translator and monastic leader. This text is a polemic written against the teachings of Pelagius and his followers, known as Pelagianism.123

Pelagianism, a 5th-century Christian heresy, emphasized human goodness and the freedom of the will, suggesting individuals could achieve righteousness through their own efforts. Pelagius and his disciple Celestius denied the doctrine of original sin and the necessity of infant baptism.2

Saint Jerome, along with Saint Augustine, strongly opposed Pelagianism. Augustine argued that humans are dependent on God's grace for righteousness. Pelagianism was condemned by church councils and its key figures were excommunicated.23