The Way of a Pilgrim: and The Pilgrim Continues His Way [Paperback]

R. M. French (Author), Faith Annette Sand (Introduction)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1989

The 19th century Russian spiritual classic on prayer, The Way of a Pilgrim, and its sequel, The Pilgrim Continues His Way, have long fascinated those who have stumbled on this winsome tale. First published in Russian in 1884 under the title, Candid Narratives of a Pilgrim to His Spiritual Father, this religious masterpiece recounts the adventures of an anonymous Russian pilgrim who roams the vast Siberian steppes reciting the Jesus Prayer in order to obey Christ's injunction to Pray without ceasing. Apparently a wise old monk collected for posterity the captivating accounts of the pilgrim's exploits and his increasing understanding of God's providence as he commits himself to a life of prayer. The manuscript, which began to circulate privately after the pilgrim disappeared headed for Jerusalem, is reissued here in an updated translation adapted for American readers. The pilgrim's charming tales and dedicated life-style are an inspirational challenge for all who would discover their own spiritual roots, pursue the contemplative life or assimilate their piety to our modern society. Many keep this unique devotional book close at hand for they have found it a comforting source of hope when they encounter trials along life's way.

Editorial Reviews

Review

A profound and beautiful example of a journey toward--rather than away from--[the] self. --Mineapolis Tribune.

A true classic of Orthodox spirituality on the origin and practice of the Jesus Prayer. --Gnosis

Review

I first learned of this book when I read Salinger's "Franny & Zooey" back in high school (a long time ago!). In the "Franny" portion, you will recall that she repeats a prayer over and over and consults a little book. At the time, I asked my lit teacher what the book was and was told it didn't exist .. it was just part of the story. Many, many years later, I heard about the Way of the Pilgrim, and putting 2 and 2 together, realized that this is what Salinger referred to. I then read Way of the Pilgrim, just to see the literary reference, and instead found a beautiful book that renewed my spiritual life. This is a simple story of a 19th century Russian wanderer, his attempts to follow St. Paul's admonition to pray without ceasing. This is a marvelous story. I recommend it without hesitation to any person who wants to grow spiritually. --Margaret Pearland

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Product Details

• Paperback: 213 pages
• Publisher: Hope Publishing House; 2nd edition (March 1, 1989)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0932727301
• ISBN-13: 978-0932727305
• Product Dimensions: 8.5 x 5.5 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 11 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.6 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (37 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #104,422 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

15 of 15 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Praying Unceasingly - the Prayer of the Heart, June 18, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Way of a Pilgrim and the Pilgrim Continues His Way (Paperback)

How does one obey the scriptural imperative to "Pray without ceasing?" The simple pilgrim (we learn his background in bits and snatches) sets out to learn how... from both the wise and the simple he meets on the road. In a period and place where a cup of tea is a rare treat and a book one's sole possession, glimpses of disaster and survival, madness and understanding, suffering and joy, simplicity and layers of implications appear with every turn in the road.

"Pray, and do not labor much to conquer your passions by your own strength. For 'greater is He that is in you than he that is in the world,' (1 John 4:4), says holy Scripture."

21 of 23 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars A Very Spiritual Enlightening Story, September 30, 2005

By 

David S. Belding Sr. (Chicago, IL) - See all my reviews
(REAL NAME)   

This review is from: The Way of a Pilgrim and the Pilgrim Continues His Way (Paperback)

I have read this book twice....I especially like French's translation. It opens an aspect of the Christian Life which is not delt with in Western Christian thought or spiritual disciplian. It opens an aspect of Christianity which I found very meaningful and powerful. The book was a true blessing.

Fr. David Belding

15 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Should be Six Stars!!, September 21, 1999

By A Customer

This review is from: The Way of a Pilgrim and the Pilgrim Continues His Way (Paperback)

A great Christian masterpiece! Reading this book gives one appreciation and thanks for the Lord's grace and mercy. A wonderful guide to life - especially in this hectic modern society. Very mystical but also very practical following in the tradition of most Orthodox spiritual essays. Highly recommended to all Christians seeking a deeper understanding of taking up one's Cross.