Saint Symeon the New Theologian: A Revelation of Light

Living as a monk in Constantinople, Saint Symeon received the gift of theology through a remarkable experience. A boundless light from heaven filled his soul, surpassing all other brilliance. A divine voice proclaimed him to be the apostle and disciple of Christ, forever changing his path.

Saint Philotheos Kokkinos: A Visit from John the Disciple

Saint Gregory Palamas, a defender of the Hesychasts, also had encounters with divine revelation. Through the eyes of John, the exceptional Disciple and friend of Christ, Gregory was questioned about his ceaseless prayer for enlightenment. This encounter filled his heart with joy and bestowed upon him the gifts of theology.

Saint Gregory Palamas: The Vision of Overflowing Milk

During a moment of sacred silence, Saint Gregory Palamas experienced a vision at the skete of Saint Savva. Holding a jar filled with milk, it transformed into fragrant wine, overflowing and filling his hands and clothes. A luminous voice urged him to share this divine gift generously with others, a reminder of the overflowing nature of theology.

The Orthodox Understanding: Divine Gift and Communal Context

These accounts of mystical experiences highlight the Orthodox understanding of theology. Such encounters, whether directly from God, through the Mother of God, or via Saint John the Divine, affirm that all theology is a divine gift. Orthodoxy emphasizes the communal context of theology, grounding individual experiences within the life of the community and emphasizing the intimate relationship with God as the source of all theology.