I've made multiple attempts to write a review that will do this book justice, and fell short. Suffice it to say, it is a "must read" for any Christian who want to understand (as much as we are able) the Trinitarian nature of God - an understanding that took seven ecumenical councils to clarify. I dare say that one cannot mature very far along the Christian path without the insights provided in this book - whether you receive them through this book or by other means.
For the first time, I feel I have a much better appreciation as to why "man" is the pinnacle of God's creation, and why we are so important to Him. Indeed, what is revealed, or taught, in this book is essential to understanding the plan of Salvation and the Christian journey to spiritual maturity.
If I have one doubt about the material presented, it is with regard to "apophatic" or "hesychastic" method, and its use in conjunction with the "Jesus Prayer". Having experienced Buddhism, in my long journey to Eastern Orthodoxy, this sounds a lot like some of the meditation practices I was taught as a Zen practitioner. Had this form of prayer been a practice since apostolic times, I would be less concerned , but it appears to have arisen amongst 13th century monastics. Late developments in practice should be viewed with an eye of suspicion.
In spite of that one reservation, this book reaffirms for me my decision to convert to Eastern Orthodoxy. So much so that it is hard to view my former Christian affiliations as anything remotely resembling the Way that Christ taught.
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