Philokalia Prayer of the Heart

Philokalia Prayer of the Heart

This compilation of the Philokalia is referred to continuously in The Way of a Pilgrim and is originally the Church Slavonic translation by Theophan the Recluse and St. Paisius Velichkovsky. Originally compiled in Greek by St. Nikodemos the Hagiorite and St. Makarios of Corinth, it was later translated and spread throughout Russia. This edition became a cornerstone of Orthodox spiritual life, especially in the practice of the Prayer of the Heart . The Philokalia offers both theological depth and practical instruction on noetic prayer, guiding seekers toward inner stillness and divine union. The Slavonic translation made these teachings accessible to monastics and laypeople alike, fostering a widespread spiritual revival. Through continuous repetition of the Jesus Prayer, the soul is purified, and the nous is illumined. The Slavonic Philokalia shaped generations of ascetics who sought ceaseless communion with God. Its influence continues to inspire those who desire to pray without ceasing.