Hesychasm refers to a contemplative tradition within Eastern Orthodox monasticism aimed at inner stillness and unceasing prayer. The goal of hesychastic practice is union with God (theosis) through quieting the mind and body to achieve continuous concentration in prayer. Scripturally, hesychasm draws heavily from Paul's exhortation to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17) and Christ's instruction to go into your inner room, shut the door, and pray to the Father in secret (Matthew 6:6).
A key aspect of hesychasm is the "Jesus prayer" - the continual repetition of the phrase "Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on me" or a similar variant. Use of the Jesus prayer traces back to Diadochus of Photice (c.400-486) who taught that repeating a short prayer facilitates stillness by giving the nous (intellect) a single focus (Philokalia Vol 1). Gregory of Sinai (c.1265-1346) popularized the Jesus prayer in particular, writing "Let the memory of Jesus combine with your breathing, and then you will know the blessings of hesychia" (Philokalia Vol. 4). This aligns with Paul's directive to "pray without ceasing" (1 Thessalonians 5:17).
A defining characteristic of hesychasm is the psychosomatic method, involving sitting still, regulating one's breathing, and concentrating attention internally. This was codified by Simeon the New Theologian (949-1022) who spoke of stilling thoughts to allow the nous to descend into the heart and perceive divine grace there (Discourses). Gregory Palamas (1296-1359) described how withdrawing the nous into the heart opens one to experiential, direct knowledge of God through "the uncreated light of Tabor," referencing Christ's transfiguration (Matthew 17:1-8). This uncreated light is seen as identical to the glory cloud that led Israel in the wilderness (Exodus 40:34-8).
Nestled within the heart of Psalm 46:10 lies a verse both simple and profound: "Be still, and know that I am God" (English Standard Version). This single line becomes a potent gateway into the mystical tradition of Hesychasm, offering fertile ground for theological exploration at the doctoral level. Through examining the verse's interaction with Hesychastic practices and principles, we unearth layers of meaning concerning our relationship with God, the nature of prayer, and the path to inner transformation.
The Setting: Psalm 46 and the Call to Tranquility
The verse emerges amidst a turbulent backdrop. Psalm 46 depicts a world shaken by turmoil and fear, with "nations raging" and "mountains trembling" (verse 6). Yet, in the midst of this chaos, a divine invitation arises: "Be still." This call to stillness stands in stark contrast to the surrounding frenzy, beckoning the reader to transcend the external noise and cultivate an inner quietude.
Encountering Hesychasm: The Practice of Inner Silence
Hesychasm, a mystical strand within Eastern Christianity, embraces this call wholeheartedly. Rooted in the teachings of the early Church Fathers and monastic practices, it emphasizes unceasing prayer, inner stillness, and the contemplation of God's uncreated energies. The "Prayer of the Heart," recited silently and rhythmically, serves as a cornerstone practice, aiming to bring the mind and heart into alignment with the divine presence within.
Convergence and Interpretation: "Be Still" in Hesychastic Light
When viewed through the lens of Hesychasm, "Be still" transcends mere physical or emotional quieting. It becomes an invitation to interior silence, a dismantling of the ego's clamoring thoughts and desires. This is echoed in the writings of Hesychastic figures like Symeon the New Theologian, who emphasizes the need to "still the intellect" and enter into "the silence of the heart." (The Discourses of Symeon the New Theologian, Chapter 13).
Knowing God: Beyond Intellectual Understanding
The second part of the verse, "and know that I am God," is equally significant. In Hesychasm, knowing God goes beyond intellectual comprehension. It becomes an experiential reality, a tasting of the divine presence through prayer and silence. Gregory Palamas, a pivotal figure in Hesychasm, describes this as "the unceasing vision of the unapproachable light," achieved through "prayer, stillness, and the unceasing remembrance of Jesus" (The Triads, Third Triad, 1.3).
Hesychastic Practices and Scriptural Support
Hesychasm finds further support in other biblical passages that emphasize the importance of stillness and communion with God. Psalm 131:2 speaks of "a quieted and humble spirit," while Philippians 4:6-7 encourages "not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." These verses resonate with the Hesychastic call to silence the mind and open oneself to God's transformative presence.
Implications for Theology and Spiritual Formation
Examining Psalm 46:10 through the lens of Hesychasm offers rich theological insights. It underscores the importance of inner stillness and contemplation in knowing God, moving beyond mere intellectual assent to a transformative experience of the divine. This approach challenges traditional Western theological emphasis on propositional truths and fosters a deeper appreciation for the mystical aspects of Christianity.
Furthermore, by integrating Hesychastic practices like the "Prayer of the Heart" into spiritual formation, individuals can cultivate a deeper connection with God and experience inner transformation. This integration, however, necessitates careful discernment and guidance from experienced spiritual directors.
Overall, through strict mental focus, regulated breathing, and unceasing prayer, hesychast monks aspire to inner stillness and mystical union with God. The practice accords with scriptural precedents around withdrawing frequently to pray (Luke 5:16), praying ceaselessly (1 Thessalonians 5:17), and the promise that those who seek the Lord will find Him when they search with all their heart (Jeremiah 29:13).
Conclusion
Psalm 46:10, interpreted through the lens of Hesychasm, unlocks a profound call to stillness and knowing God. This exploration, while drawing primarily on Symeon the New Theologian and Gregory Palamas, opens doors for further investigation into other Hesychastic figures and their theological contributions. The dialogue between Scripture and Hesychastic practices offers fertile ground for enriching our understanding of God, prayer, and the journey of spiritual transformation.
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