The Way of a Pilgrim: The Jesus Prayer Journey—Annotated & Explained

by Gleb Pokrovsky, Andrew Harvey (Foreword)

The classic of Russian spirituality—now with facing-page
commentary that illuminates and explains the text.

The Way of a Pilgrim is the timeless account of an anonymous wanderer who set out on a journey across nineteenth-century Russia with nothing but a backpack, some bread, and a Bible, with a burning desire to learn the true meaning of the words of St. Paul: "Pray without ceasing." In this completely accessible new abridgment, all the terms and references are explained for you--with intriguing insights into aspects of the text that are often not available to the general reader.

Genres: Spirituality, Christianity, Religion, Prayer

140 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 1, 2001

Reviews

[Stephen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether you're interested in mantras, walking, or just the pungent richness of 19th-century rural Russia, don't miss this one. Anonymous, but up there with Tolstoy and Dostoyevsky. The book came out in 1881, but is probably set in the 1850s, when the narrator walks to Siberia seeking enlightenment about the hesychast mantra known as "The Jesus Prayer." (Hesychasm is the mystical practice of inner silence, a form of meditation.)

Don't be turned away from the book if you're not Orthodox. Buddhists and Hindus have said it completely checks out with their own experience.

Such a masterpiece.

[Rhonda Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prayer of the Heart

I have been practicing the Jesus Prayer for many years. But, this book has truly taught me the true meaning and practice of the prayer. This been has also taught me the true meaning of unceasing prayer. I highly recommend it.

[judith jerez · Rating 5 out of 5]

So simple a prayer

Just to think all we have to do ask God to have mercy and he does. It’s something you can just think and it’s done. His prayer

[Auj · Rating 2 out of 5]

Had to read this for school
If I was Orthodox, I'd probably find it meaningful. But I'm not and it was just boring (no offense). The second half was more interesting, however.

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.

[Irini · Rating 4 out of 5]

It reminded me of The Alchemist a little bit. I thoroughly enjoyed the story and the annotations.

[Diane · Rating 4 out of 5]

A very old book, originally written in Russian. A very thought provoking book on unceasing prayer.

[Shiva Seven · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyed the Annotated & Explained.