Hieroschemamonk Feofil: Fool-for-Christ's-Sake. Ascetic and Visionary of the Kiev-Caves Lavra

by Vladimir Znosko

A life of this ascetic and visionary of the Kiev Caves Lavra. Considered by some to be the model for the character of the holy fool in the popular Russian film "Ostrov" (The Island).

Genres: Religion

134 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1970

Reviews

[Max Berendsen · Rating 5 out of 5]

After having seen the movie "The Island" (in which Pyotr Mamonov fantastically played the role of Father Anatoly, a "Fool for Christ) a friend mentioned this book to me. A biography of Blessed Elder Feofil of the Kiev-Caves-Lavra, he told me that the character of Father Anatoly was inspired by Elder Feofil. After hearing this, I simply had to read the book.

While being only 134 pages long, this book without a doubt contains enough wisdom and spiritual treasures for ten times as many pages! Since I don't want to spoil the contents of this short but extremely rich work, I would just like to say that reading about the life and wisdom of Elder Feofil has given me an array of new insights into my faith and was above all a truly humbling experience.

Not a single part of me doubts that every reader of Elder Feofil's life will encounter the same things!

[Ryan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I bought this because I read that Father Anatoly from my favorite movie Ostrov was based off of this man. Very much worth the read

[Vasilia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Read on the double recommendation of a friend and the movie Ostrov. Very moving. What would St Feofil have done if we had come to his cell?

[EC · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating book about a Holy Fool for God named "Feofil." Holy Fools are people in love with God who have completely given up on the world, and often times given up on bathing and eating healthy etc. A saintly and sage person nonetheless.

[Jacob · Rating 5 out of 5]

Amazing life of an amazing man.