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The Angelic Life: A Vision of Orthodox Monasticism
What is Authentic Orthodox monasticism? Why do the saints call it the light of the world and the boast of the Church? What does it take to become a monk? What is the inner life of a true monk? What is his purpose, and how can he measure his progress? This book answers these questions by letting the holy Fathers speak for themselves.
In this treatise we have compiled and commented on two thousand patristic quotes (some appearing in English for the first time) showing how authentic monasticism is indeed the angelic life.
But this book is much more than just a compilation of what others have already written. It is also permeated with the personal vision and ideals of Elder Ephraim's former cell-attendant in Arizona. Thus, not only does it present traditional monastic teachings on obedience, virginity, poverty, and prayer, but it also delves into contemporary aspects of life in general, such as interpersonal relationships, the true role of a leader, good disobedience, the internet, and modernism.
Because this book covers a broad range of topics that apply to everyone, and since "the monastic life is a light for all people," laymen may also derive benefit and inspiration from this monastic wisdom.
For a free download of 140 pages of this book, go www.stnilus.org/sample.pdf
In this treatise we have compiled and commented on two thousand patristic quotes (some appearing in English for the first time) showing how authentic monasticism is indeed the angelic life.
But this book is much more than just a compilation of what others have already written. It is also permeated with the personal vision and ideals of Elder Ephraim's former cell-attendant in Arizona. Thus, not only does it present traditional monastic teachings on obedience, virginity, poverty, and prayer, but it also delves into contemporary aspects of life in general, such as interpersonal relationships, the true role of a leader, good disobedience, the internet, and modernism.
Because this book covers a broad range of topics that apply to everyone, and since "the monastic life is a light for all people," laymen may also derive benefit and inspiration from this monastic wisdom.
For a free download of 140 pages of this book, go www.stnilus.org/sample.pdf
556 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 15, 2021
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Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews
February 22, 2021
Tremendous!
This is by far the most inspiring and informative book I have ever read about Orthodox monasticism! The saints’ fiery love of God shines through on every page and is contagious. It really brings out the beauty of life devoted to God, without becoming a legalistic rule-book. Even though it’s a big book (500+ pages on 8½x11 paper), it is a quick and delightful read with plenty of fascinating anecdotes.
One thing I love about this book is that it succeeds in presenting the teachings of the holy Fathers in a way that is contemporary and relevant. I especially appreciate how it doesn’t shy away from controversial issues, such as when disobedience is appropriate, what role technology should play in the life of a monk, and whether non-Orthodox books should be read. My favorite section is “Obedience and Freedom,” which shows the subtle yet important difference between free obedience in the spirit of Christ, and imposed discipline in the spirit of the military. The author, who was the disciple of a contemporary saint, draws upon a broad range of knowledge to create this bouquet of insights.
I was pleasantly surprised to see how much of the book is relevant for people not in a monastery. I can’t tell you enough how much of an eye-opener this book is!
Pros:
- thorough presentation of every aspect of monastic life
- many inspiring quotes from the saints you won’t find elsewhere
- huge index makes it easy to find anything you want
Cons:
- the book is a bit heavy to hold comfortably in your hands
- it is printed on bone white paper instead of a nicer shade of off-white
This is by far the most inspiring and informative book I have ever read about Orthodox monasticism! The saints’ fiery love of God shines through on every page and is contagious. It really brings out the beauty of life devoted to God, without becoming a legalistic rule-book. Even though it’s a big book (500+ pages on 8½x11 paper), it is a quick and delightful read with plenty of fascinating anecdotes.
One thing I love about this book is that it succeeds in presenting the teachings of the holy Fathers in a way that is contemporary and relevant. I especially appreciate how it doesn’t shy away from controversial issues, such as when disobedience is appropriate, what role technology should play in the life of a monk, and whether non-Orthodox books should be read. My favorite section is “Obedience and Freedom,” which shows the subtle yet important difference between free obedience in the spirit of Christ, and imposed discipline in the spirit of the military. The author, who was the disciple of a contemporary saint, draws upon a broad range of knowledge to create this bouquet of insights.
I was pleasantly surprised to see how much of the book is relevant for people not in a monastery. I can’t tell you enough how much of an eye-opener this book is!
Pros:
- thorough presentation of every aspect of monastic life
- many inspiring quotes from the saints you won’t find elsewhere
- huge index makes it easy to find anything you want
Cons:
- the book is a bit heavy to hold comfortably in your hands
- it is printed on bone white paper instead of a nicer shade of off-white
July 6, 2023
Absolutely awesome book all about Eastern Orthodox monasticism. A beautiful, large book. Spiritual edification from the early church.
Displaying 1 - 2 of 2 reviews