"Prayer gives wings..." (Prayer in the interpretations of Saint Theophan the Recluse of Vyshensky)

Abstract

The article examines the teaching on prayer according to the works of Saint Theophan the Recluse. Saint Theophan the Recluse of Vyshensky called prayer "the breath of the spirit." "Prayer," we also read in his writings, "is the science of sciences," "it is everything: faith, piety, salvation. Following the teachings of the Holy Fathers, Saint Theophan believed that correct prayer is possible only for those Christians whose hearts are filled with a sense of repentance. Saint Theophan points out that a necessary condition for success in prayer is the purification of the heart from passions and any attachment to anything sensual. In order to learn correct prayer, it is necessary not only to force yourself to collect your mind, but also to make every effort to active piety. A person striving for perfection in the feat of prayer must try to adorn his heart with Christian virtues, because, according to Bishop Theophan, “prayer does not exist alone, but together with all the virtues. As virtues are perfected, prayer is also perfected.” Saint Theophan places church prayer above home prayer, because it is raised by a whole assembly of people, among whom there may be many pure prayers brought to God from humble hearts. Private prayer, along with church prayer, is necessary in the spiritual life of a Christian. Prayer has various types and degrees of perfection and is the subject of labors, desires and searches of many, many saints, but all degrees of prayer, even the highest, can be achieved not only by ascetics who have entirely dedicated their lives to God, but also by Christians living in the world. The author comes to the conclusion that prayer is the only force on earth capable of overcoming the so-called “laws of nature.” True and sincere prayer leads people out of the darkest situations into the comforting light of God. It is the foundation and essence of the entire life of a Christian.