St Symeon the New Theologian and Spiritual Fatherhood: The New Theologian and Spiritual Fatherhood (Byzantina Neerlandica, Fasciculus 11)

Besides his importance as a Christian mystic, St. Symeon - The New Theologian is a valuable source of information concerning the objectives of a spiritual father and his clients, the kinds of training given by a father to his disciples, and the difficulties encountered in the relationship. These and kindred matters are considered in some detail in this study, which comprises an examination of Symeon's background, his experience as a disciple and a spiritual father and of the teaching he gave in the latter capacity. The author has been able to make use of three letters written by Symeon the texts of which have not yet been published. Title Page Copyright Page Table of Contents Preface Select Bibliography Abbreviations/Method of Citation Glossary Transliteration—A Note I. Introductory II. The Sources III. Symeon: Biographical IV. Symeon: Heritage and Influences V. Spiritual Fatherhood: Securing a Father The Basic Motive A Good Father—the Benefits A Bad Father—the Dangers The Need for Prayer, Divine Help and Prudence The Recipients of Symeon’s Warnings VI. The Spiritual Father’s Qualifications The Meaning of “Qualification” What the Qualifications Involve The Physician of the Soul The Pastor Further Requirements Symeon’s Emphasis on Experience VII. The Spiritual Father at Work i) Preliminary ii) Ensuring the Disciple’s Salvation iii) Training The Body Thoughts Conduct and Character Spiritual Life Dispassion iv) The End of the Father’s Work VIII. The Duty of a Disciple Basis: The Father as “Icon” Obedience, Submission, and Elimination of the Will Further Obligations IX. The Difficulties of Spiritual Fatherhood Background Symeon in St. Mamas’ Problems Concerning Seculars Symeon’s Reluctance X. Symeon and Spiritual Fatherhood: Concluding Reflections Index