Author: Rev. Prof. Sorin Cosma (Caransebeș Faculty of Orthodox Theology)
Keywords: good judgement, discernment, thought, virtue, the Royal Way, holiness
Abstract:
According to Saint Anthony and following the Philokalic ethos, good judgement is „the mother and keeper of all virtues”. It is the mother of all virtues because good judgement represents the base of ascetic life, as discernment or gift of insight. As a virtue of thought or judgement, in accordance with the teachings of Christs Gospel, good judgement rightfully shows how to exercise restraint as the desirable middle between the two spiritually harmful extremes (excess and deficiency). It is the keeper of all virtues because good judgement is dynamic and creative, being „the golden middle way” thoughtfully and skilfully between many others, the only one that certainly leads to the sanctification of life, by keeping both mind and heart in a constant „inner watchfulness” (prosohe), intimately and functionally linked to prayer (proseuhe). As gift for the discernment of spirits, coming from the Holy Ghost, good judgement proved its effectiveness within the early Church and was subsequently cultivated by the Fathers for unveiling the thoughts and knowing God’s will.
Pages: 58-76