On Thoughts

by Evagrius Ponticus, Nun Christina

Evagrius Ponticus' "On Thoughts" is a profound spiritual treatise offering deep insights into the complex inner life of a Christian ascetic. The text explores the nature of various thoughts—both virtuous and demonic—and their influence on the soul's journey toward purity and communion with God. Evagrius delves into the subtle ways in which evil thoughts can hinder spiritual progress, even when cloaked in the guise of virtue. He emphasizes the importance of vigilance, prayer, and discernment in overcoming these thoughts and attaining a state of dispassion. The work also addresses the challenges of excessive asceticism, the role of dreams in spiritual life, and the struggle to maintain pure prayer. Evagrius offers practical guidance for monks and hermits striving to achieve a life of virtue, inner peace, and a closer relationship with God.

36 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 28, 2024

About the author

Evagrius Ponticus (Greek: Εὐάγριος ὁ Ποντικός, "Evagrius of Pontus"), also called Evagrius the Solitary (345–399 AD), was a Christian monk and ascetic. One of the most influential theologians in the late fourth-century church, he was well known as a thinker, polished speaker, and gifted writer. He left a promising ecclesiastical career in Constantinople and traveled to Jerusalem, where in 383 he became a monk at the monastery of Rufinus and Melania the Elder. He then went to Egypt and spent the remaining years of his life in Nitria and Kellia, marked by years of asceticism and writing. He was a disciple of several influential contemporary church leaders, including Basil of Caesarea, Gregory of Nazianzus, and Macarius of Egypt. He was a teacher of others, including John Cassian and Palladius.