Van Oort, Johannes (Hans)2017-06-052016-12Van Oort, J. 2016, 'Augustine and Hermes Trismegistus : an inquiry into the spirituality of Augustine’s ‘hidden years', Journal of Early Christian History, vol. 6, no. 2, pp. 55-76.2471-4054 (online)2222-582X (print)10.1080/2222582X.2016.1218998http://hdl.handle.net/2263/60792This paper draws attention to the possible role of Hermetic writings in the spiritual development of Augustine (354–430). It first places his knowledge of Hermetica within the context of both ‘orthodox’ African Christianity (Tertullian, Cyprian, Arnobius, Lactantius) and contemporary Manichaeism. It then focuses on his dealing with Hermetic writings, ideas and expressions in writings such as the Confessions, the (now lost) The Beautiful and the Harmonious, and Against Faustus. In Augustine’s later writing the City of God, one finds a twofold appreciation of Hermes, which had a particular influence in subsequent centuries.English© Taylor and Francis co-published with UNISA Press. This is an electronic version of an article published in Journal of Early Christian History, vol. 6, no. 2, Dec 2016, pp. 55-76 . doi : 10.1080/2222582X.2016.1218998. Journal of Early Christian History is available online at : http://www.tandfonline.com/toc/rech20.African Christianity (TertullianCyprianArnobiusLactantius)African PaganismAgainst FaustusAugustineCity of GodConfessionsHermeticaManichaeismBeautiful and the harmoniousPostprint Article