Chapter 97
On the Jesus Prayer and Its Technique of Practice
97.2.1 The mercy of God be with you!
97.3.1 I hasten to tell you what is needful. In those articles that will appear in the first issue, there is nothing about noetic activity.[1]
97.4.1 The discussion of the technique of the Jesus Prayer began with Gregory of Sinai in the thirteenth century and after – before that it goes far back. Then we’ll decide whether to print about this! But I’ll tell you in advance that it has already occurred to me to omit those articles in which this is discussed... and to end the collection with Symeon the Theologian...
97.5.1 To say the Jesus Prayer, as we all learn to do, is a good thing. In monasteries this is imposed as a duty. Would they really impose it if it were dangerous?! What is dangerous is the technique that people have invented and adapted to this prayer. It plunges one person into delusion of fantasy – and another, strange to say, into a constant lustful state. That’s why it must be discouraged and forbidden. But everyone should be taught to call on the sweetest name of the Lord in simplicity of heart, and everyone should be encouraged to do so...
97.6.1 I’m very glad that the printing is going ahead.
97.7.1 The second issue can also be printed... without Cassian, whose work is still pending – and who by himself will make up a large book. Moreover, the rules of Basil the Great, Pachomius, and Benedict in my manuscripts take up about two hundred pages. Consequently, almost as much as the first edition.
97.8.1 With the Bright Feast. Greet the elders on Mount Athos.
97.9.1 I ask for their prayers.
97.10.1 Your intercessor, Bishop Theophan.
97.11.1