Publication of The Gospel in Brief

MoofLife logo
Updated By: History Editorial Network (HEN)
Published: 
4 min read

The Gospel in Brief is a remarkable work by Leo Tolstoy, first published in 1896, in which the Russian author attempts to distill the essence of the Christian Gospels into a singular, coherent narrative. Deeply dissatisfied with the institutional Church and its interpretation of Christian doctrine, Tolstoy sought to return to the core moral teachings of Jesus Christ—particularly those focused on love, humility, forgiveness, and nonviolence. In this book, Tolstoy compiles and harmonizes passages from the four canonical Gospels, presenting a version of Jesus’ message that strips away dogma, miracles, and ecclesiastical tradition in favor of ethical clarity and universal truth. Tolstoy’s The Gospel in Brief reflects his personal spiritual transformation and marks a critical moment in his life when he turned away from aristocratic privilege to embrace a life of simplicity, moral responsibility, and pacifism. His reinterpretation of the Gospels inspired a wide array of thinkers and activists, including Mahatma Gandhi, who credited the book with significantly shaping his philosophy of nonviolent resistance. More than a theological text, this work is a bold, introspective exploration of faith, ethics, and the human search for meaning—offering a timeless message that continues to resonate with spiritual seekers and social reformers alike. #MomentsOfLife #MoofLife_Moment #MoofLife #Tolstoy #TheGospelInBrief #SpiritualWisdom #NonViolence #ChristianEthics #FaithAndLife #TimelessTeachings
Primary Reference: Leo Tolstoy
Explore the Life Moments of Leo Tolstoy |