Desert Fathers with Bishop Erik Varden Episode 32: Philosophy
Aug 5, 2025
Bishop Erik Varden, a Cistercian bishop and writer, reflects on the virtue of fortitude as taught by the Desert Fathers. He discusses how embracing philosophy involves enduring hardship and critiques the modern misconceptions of philosophy. Varden illustrates Plato’s broad vision and emphasizes that monastic life embodies lived philosophy. He connects the biblical notion of wisdom to Christ, arguing that true understanding arises from self-sacrificial love. The conversation culminates in a call to pursue philosophical fortitude in today's world.
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Prepare For Hardship
- Expect hardship when you commit yourself to philosophy or spiritual discipline.
- If hardship comes, endure it patiently to remain true to your purpose.
Philosophy As A Way Of Life
- Philosophy properly understood is a lived love of wisdom that shapes life, not an abstract academic exercise.
- Monastic life was called philosophy because monks sought to live coherently with Christ as the measure of reality.
Train Conversation Example
- Bishop Erik Varden recounts a train conversation where 'be philosophical' meant 'don't think about it'.
- The quip illustrates modern misunderstanding of being philosophical as mere stoic detachment.
