The Autobiography of St. Ignatius

A spiritual memoir written in the early 16th century. The book recounts the profound personal transformation of Ignatius, highlighting his military past, intense spiritual experiences, and the founding of the Society of Jesus. The text offers readers an intimate look into his struggles with vanity and ambition, his recovery from a serious injury, and the gradual awakening of his spiritual purpose. The beginning of the autobiography portrays Ignatius as a man enthralled by worldly pursuits, particularly in his military career, until he is injured at the siege of Pampeluna. During his lengthy recovery, he begins reading about the lives of saints, which ignites a deeply spiritual yearning within him. The narrative describes his inner conflict as he grapples with returning to worldly fears versus embracing a life devoted to God. His epiphany leads him to forego his former ways and commit to a path of penance and service, eventually influencing many around him and setting the stage for his future endeavors in forming the Jesuit order.