Word & Table The Philokalia
Jun 5, 2025
Discover the depths of Eastern Orthodox mystical theology through a significant anthology that aids spiritual connection. Dive into the practice of inner stillness and the transformative power of the Jesus prayer. Uncover the historical impact and cultural challenges behind the Philokalia's compilation. Explore the contributions of influential theologians and their relevance today. Learn to navigate the complexities of personal prayer, transitioning from distractions to meaningful dialogue with the divine.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Hesychasm's Path to Stillness
- Hesychasm emphasizes inner stillness and quieting the mind to move closer to God.
- It aims to transcend meditation through spiritual disciplines like the Jesus Prayer and bodily posture.
Philokalia: More Than Anthology
- The Philokalia means "love of beautiful things" but is actually a Greek term for anthology.
- It collects substantial spiritual treatises, not just brief sayings, making it unique among anthologies.
Philokalia's Purpose and Era
- The Philokalia was compiled in the 18th century as a response to the Enlightenment and a Greek spiritual revival.
- It was intended for both clergy and laity, making the mystical tradition accessible to all.
