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Eustochium

c. 368 – c. 419 · b. Rome
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Daughter of Paula of Rome and a leading figure of the Roman ascetic circle around Jerome. She took a vow of virginity as a young woman; Jerome's Letter 22 to her, on the preservation of virginity, is one of his most influential and controversial works. She accompanied her mother to Bethlehem in 386 and after Paula's death in 404 directed the women's monastery there until her own death. Jerome dedicated several biblical commentaries to her and to Paula.

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Common questions

Who was Eustochium?
Eustochium (368–419) — Daughter of Paula of Rome and a leading figure of the Roman ascetic circle around Jerome. She took a vow of virginity as a young woman; Jerome's Letter 22 to her, on the preservation of virginity, is one of his most influential and controversial works. She accompanied her mother to Bethlehem in 386 and after Paula's death in 404 directed the women's monastery there until her own death. Jerome dedicated several biblical commentaries to her and to Paula.
Who taught Eustochium?
Paula of Rome.
Who did Eustochium correspond with?
Jerome.

Sources for biography

  • Jerome, Epistula 22 (Ad Eustochium) primary
  • Jerome, Epistula 108 (Epitaphium Paulae) primary
  • ODCC s.v. Eustochium, St secondary

documented connections(2)

  • taught by Paula of Rome
    Daughter of Paula; raised in her mother's ascetic household and succeeded her as head of the Bethlehem women's monastery.
    Jerome, Epistula 108
  • corresponded Jerome
    Recipient of Jerome's Letter 22 (Ad Eustochium) and dedicatee of multiple biblical commentaries.
    Jerome, Epistula 22 · Jerome, prefaces to commentaries on Isaiah, Ezekiel and the Minor Prophets

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