The quotes of the orthodox saints are always interesting and they can bring a new perspective to our lives. These quotes can be very helpful in deciding what to believe and how to live our lives in the way God wants us to. Here are some of the most popular quotes by the orthodox saints:
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St Maximos the Confessor
There is a lot to be said about St Maximos the Confessor. Not only is he one of the earliest emperors of the Byzantine Empire, he is also a philosopher whose writings are still admired for their spiritual wisdom. And he is not alone in his accomplishments.
Maximus was a shrewd politician, a gifted writer and a wise father. Nonetheless, he was not without flaws. He was also persecuted for his beliefs. As a result, he lived an exiled life, first in Caucasus, then in the capital of his native Byzantium.
Despite his many virtues, he was unable to save the city from the Persians, and so was exiled once more. During this time he developed a liking for the occult and was converted to Orthodoxy. It is estimated that he died in 661, shortly after the Sixth Ecumenical Council.
St Isaac the Syrian
St Isaac the Syrian is one of the most revered orthodox saints. His writings have been a spiritual guide for generations. Known as the ‘harbour of salvation’ for the entire world, his works have gained increased recognition over the years. The Greek translation of his work has been widely read in the Greek-speaking East in the eleventh century. However, many of his works have not been translated into modern languages.
Isaac’s biography is partially reconstructed based on a meager autobiographical account. Two Syriac sources offer glimpses into his life. These accounts are not well-known outside of Eastern Syrian circles.
Isaac is considered to have been a bishop of the Church of the East. His writings were written in the seventh or eighth centuries. He was known for his ascetic life and virtue.
St Gregory
Saint Gregory of Assisi was one of the most important popes in the history of the church. His writings and his influence were felt throughout the middle ages. He was a key figure in the development of Western spirituality.
He was born in 540 AD, into a very wealthy Roman family. His father became a senator and served in the imperial government in Constantinople.
At age 41, Gregory was called to the priesthood. Although he reluctantly accepted the priesthood, he soon became a bishop. Later, he was made prefect of Rome. After a battle with Valens, a pro-Arian Patriarch, Gregory secured the allegiance of the northern tribes of Italy to orthodox Catholicism.
Gregory was a prolific writer. He wrote many sermons and books. He also made numerous revisions to the Mass.
Letter of Cyril to Nestorius
Nestorius, a teacher of Nestorianism, is often referred to in the Nestorian question. Cyril responded to his critics by defending Cyril’s use of the words “two natures”.
Cyril made it clear that he denied the mingling of natures in Christ and that neither nature would suffer. He also stated that the human soul was reasonable.
Cyril was accused of heresy by the Antiochenes. Their charge rested on a misunderstanding. They saw in Cyril’s new declarations an effort to correct an error. Consequently, they pronounced anathema on him. However, their pronouncements were based on the misunderstanding of single expressions of Cyril’s teaching.
In response to the scourge of the Antiochenes, Cyril wrote a letter to Bishop Acacius of Melitene. Acacius accepted the letter and handed it to his Oriental colleagues.
Theology of the Noetic Prayer of the Heart
Theology of the Noetic Prayer of the Heart is not a science, but a spiritual experience. It presupposes obedience to a spiritual guide and participation in the life of the Church.
One of the best ways to understand this experience is to read the writings of ancient and modern theologians. Some of the best texts include the writings of Metropolitan Hierotheos of Nafpaktos, St. John Klimakos, and St. Symeon, the New Theologian.
Noetic prayer is an impressive feat of the mind. It is a kind of rebirth that takes place in the inner world of the soul. In the beginning stages, this activity is largely imperceptible.
There are many benefits to noetic prayer. First and foremost, it purifies the soul. Secondly, it can be used to restrain demons. Lastly, it can help one to reach salvation.
