Set against the backdrop of late 19th century Russia, a period marked by social upheaval and existential questioning, Tolstoy critiques the institutionalized Christian church, which he perceived as having strayed from Jesus's original teachings.<br /><br />Tolstoy sought to reclaim the essence of Christianity by compiling the four Gospels into a concise narrative. His approach emphasized extracting the core message of compassion and love, discarding what he viewed as extraneous layers of dogma and ritual. The result is a powerful synthesis that distills Jesus's teachings into their purest form, offering a direct and accessible guide to ethical living.<br /><br />In this work, Tolstoy prioritizes themes such as non-violence, forgiveness, and actionable compassion, presenting them in a structure that highlights their ethical significance. He advocates for a personal, heartfelt faith over institutionalized religion, a radical idea at the time that resonated with those seeking meaningful change amidst societal turmoil.