Episode 6: Triumph of Ascetic Theology Over Intellectualism, “St Gregory Palamas: An Introduction.”

Send us Fan MailSeries: Mystical TheologyUnit 14: Gregory PalamasEpisode 6: Triumph of Ascetic Theology Over IntellectualismThe sixth episode in our series presents the differing perspectives of Palamas’ three theological opponents, who curiously shared a common intellectualistic approach to matters theological, which gradually, since Augustine of Hippo, became the fundamental approach of the West: philosophical speculation.A word is also offered regarding St. Gregory’s capture by the Ottoman Turks in 1354 and his being held hostage for about a year. Themes covered in this episode include similarities and differences between Barlaam, Akindynus and Gregoras; why the essence-energies distinction is not ditheism; Palamas’ disarming distinction between “Antilogia” and “Homologia”; St. Gregory held hostage by the Ottoman Turks; and the outcome of Palamas’ discussion with the Turkish Mullah.Q&As related to Episode 6 available in The Professor’s Blog.Recommended background reading: Christopher Veniamin, ed., Saint Gregory Palamas: The Homilies (Dalton PA: 2022).TIMESTAMPS00:00 Why three opponents?00:12 Barlaam the Calabrian05:10 Gregory Akindynus14:50 Nicephorus Gregoras16:46 Essence-Energies distinction18:30 “Antilogia” and “Homologia”22:47 Palamas Taken Hostage24:05 Discussions with Turkish MullahIt 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. Join the Mount Thabor Academy Podcasts and help us to bring podcasts on Orthodox theology and the spiritual life to the wider community. Support the showIf you enjoy our podcast, consider supporting our The Mount Thabor Academy Patreon page, to unlock exclusive, member-only content.Print Books by MOUNT THABOR PUBLISHINGeBooks Amazon Kindle Contact us: [email protected]. Christopher Veniamin D.Phil. (Oxon.)