This work is a theological treatise that explores the following themes:
* Theodicy: It attempts to reconcile God's justice and goodness with the existence of evil and suffering in the world.
* Sin and its consequences: Salvian argues that sin is the root cause of human suffering, and he calls for repentance and a return to God's law.
* The role of the Church: He emphasizes the Church's mission to spread the gospel and offer spiritual guidance.
* The importance of social justice: Salvian criticizes the wealthy and powerful for their exploitation of the poor and advocates for a more just and equitable society.
Other works attributed to Salvian:
* "On the Correction of the Manners of the Clergy" (Latin: *De Correctione Morum Clericorum*)
* "On the Correction of the Manners of the People" (Latin: *De Correctione Morum Populi*)
However, the authenticity of these additional works is debated among scholars.
Salvian's legacy:
Salvian's writing is considered an important source for understanding the social and religious anxieties of the 5th century. His work influenced later theologians and continues to be studied today for its insights into the nature of sin, the problem of evil, and the role of the Church in society.