A Note on "substomachans" (Augustine, conf. 3.21)

Abstract

This brief note explains the curious word “substomachans” in conf. 3.21 from the Manichaean background of both Monnica’s bishop and Augustine. Based on this explanation, the note proposes a new translation of the phrase in which “substomachans” occurs. The interpretation offered seems to be backed by Julian of Eclanum’s use of “substomachans”. In essence, “substomachari” refers to the “ructare” during the Manichaeans’ daily ritual meal: “to belch (out)”.