Lecture Notes on The Filocalia and its Significance

Introduction

The lecture discusses "The Way of a Pilgrim" which tells the story of a 19th-century Russian Pilgrim.
He is inspired by the concept of praying without ceasing, introduced to him through a sermon.

The Pilgrim learns about the Jesus Prayer: "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me, a sinner."
This prayer is seen as a means to achieve continual prayer.

The Pilgrim carries a volume titled "The Filocalia" (also known as "The Philokalia").

What is The Filocalia?
- Originally published in Venice in 1782, a large folio volume (12,200 pages) in Greek.
- Compiled of writings from 36 authors ranging from the 4th to the 15th century.
- Focuses on inner prayer and spiritual life rather than outward church activities.
- Contains no details on church services or political/social issues, emphasizing inner work and the search for God.
- Approved by censors for moral content but firmly rooted in Orthodox tradition.
Who are the Editors of The Filocalia?
- Edited by St. Macarius of Corinth and St. Nicodemus of the Holy Mountain.
- St. Macarius was briefly a Bishop but faced removal due to political tensions and spent life wandering.
- St. Nicodemus, recognized for his intelligence and contributions, authored many texts and had a photographic memory.
- Both editors sought to preserve Orthodox tradition in response to Western secularism.
Why Was The Filocalia Published?
- The late 18th century marked a turning point for Greek Orthodoxy amid influences from the Enlightenment.
- A reaction against secularism and a reaffirmation of Orthodox traditions led to the creation of this work.
- The Kolyvades movement advocated a return to traditional practices and the authentic Orthodox heritage.
- The Filocalia was part of a larger program of renewal and education for the Orthodox Church.

Intended for all Christians, not just monks or clergy.
Emphasizes the command to pray without ceasing is universal.
Encourages frequent communion, challenging the past practices of rare communion.

The need for such renewal was heightened by the decline in Orthodox adherence and the rise of apostasy under Muslim rule in the Ottoman Empire.
The Filocalia serves as a missionary tool through publications rather than direct preaching.

The title "Filocalia" translates to "love of beauty," reflecting a deeper unity in the spiritual texts.
The lecture suggests that The Filocalia is more than an anthology; it serves a unified purpose in guiding Christians towards inner prayer and beauty in spirituality.

Note: Future discussions will aim to explore the unity within the texts of The Filocalia.