Episode 7: Conclusions, “St Gregory Palamas: An Introduction.”

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Series: Mystical Theology
Unit 14: Gregory Palamas
Episode 7: Conclusions

Are you ready to unravel the profound mysteries of Orthodox theology? We promise an enlightening journey as we immerse ourselves in the world of theosis and the revelation of God. Our exploration mentions briefly the significant contributions of Dionysius the Areopagite and the criticisms put forth by William of Ockham against Scholasticism's realist view. We tackle the notion that neither the analogia entis nor the analogia fidei apply to God, and that without illumination and theosis,  Holy Scripture remains cannot be interpreted correctly. We underline the fact that the Orthodox faith transcends concepts about God and is based on the vision of Christ in glory.

The second phase of our discussion puts the spotlight on Christology and the intimate bond we can form with God through the incarnation. We examine St. Gregory Palamas' doctrine of the essence and energy of God, the role of the church, repentance, and the significance of the divine Eucharist in the Christian life. We further study the intersection of Orthodox theology with the ascetic life and how it manifests in our daily practices. Embark on this captivating exploration of theology with us and gain a deeper understanding of the beauty and mystery of the Christian faith.

The seventh episode in this unit is by way of conclusion, consisting of observations regarding the role and significance of St. Gregory Palamas in the life of the Orthodox Church, specifically, and in the history of Christian doctrine more generally.

Dr. Veniamin’s purpose is simply to remind us of the ascetic and pastoral context of Hesychast theology, which is the life of the people of God, going back to the patriarchs, prophets and saints of all generations - it is the life of that prayer and stillness which prepares us for the encounter with God.

Q&As related to Episode 7 available in The Professor’s Blog.

Recommended background reading: Christopher Veniamin, ed., Saint Gregory Palamas: The Homilies (Dalton PA: 2022).

TIMESTAMPS

00:00 Summary

01:15 The Bible and “theosis”

02:49 Palamas represents empirical theology

06:12 1 Cor. 12:26

06:49 Two forms of knowledge 

08:19 Language of Scripture 

09:38 No Subject–Object in God

10:40 Hypostasis

12:14 Incarnation

14:25 Repentance and thanksgiving 

15:50 Real conclusion

16:08 Essence–Energies distinction 

19:24 True basis of theology

21:30 Practical relevance of doctrine

22:38 Gregory not an "optional extra"

It is hoped that these presentations will help the enquirer discern the profound interrelationship between Orthodox theology and the Orthodox Christian life, and to identify the ascetic and pastoral significance of the Orthodox ethos contained therein. 

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Dr. Christopher Veniamin D.Phil. (Oxon.)