Nepsis, Wakefulness, Attentiveness

The Ladder of Divine Ascent, written by John Climacus in the 7th century, is a classic text of Christian monastic spirituality. It uses the metaphor of a ladder to represent the spiritual journey toward union with God. Each rung of the ladder represents a virtue or stage of spiritual growth, from the initial steps of repentance and humility to the highest levels of contemplation and divine love. The book offers practical advice and guidance for those seeking to live a life of spiritual discipline and devotion. It remains a significant influence on monastic life and spiritual practice. Its enduring appeal lies in its clear and accessible presentation of the path to spiritual perfection.

This book is a foundational text of Christian mysticism, written in the 14th century. It advises readers to direct their full attention, love, and effort towards God by embracing a 'cloud of unknowing' that stands between them and God. The author emphasizes that God cannot be known through intellect but only through love and a deep, contemplative practice. The text advocates for the abandonment of all worldly thoughts and distractions to focus solely on God, using a 'cloud of forgetting' to separate oneself from created things. It is a guide for advanced spiritual seekers, outlining the stages of spiritual life including purgation, illumination, and union with God.

The Philokalia is a collection of writings by various Eastern Orthodox Christian spiritual fathers. It offers a comprehensive guide to the practice of Hesychasm, a contemplative tradition emphasizing inner stillness and prayer. The texts cover a wide range of spiritual topics, including prayer, repentance, and theosis (deification). The Philokalia has been influential in shaping Orthodox spirituality and has also resonated with seekers from other traditions. Its enduring appeal lies in its practical guidance for spiritual growth and transformation.