The Arena: Guidelines for Spiritual and Monastic Life (5) (Collected Works of Saint Ignatius (Brianchaninov))

I've only ready Part I of this book so far, and definitely recommend the eBook version, which offers a much easier way to reference the many footnotes. That said, the vast majority of the 50 chapters in Part I of this translated work strike a wonderful balance between both brevity and clarity. It is abundantly clear that both the author and translator stayed true to what is meet and right with regard to how a monastic can best discern the way of true repentance. The vast majority of these guidelines are timeless and well supported with excellent samples from hagiography (i.e. stories of the Saints) and Holy Tradition (e.g. Holy Scripture and various quotes from the Holy Fathers). And I especially like how the author describes the modern difficulties that monasticism faces, as I think this dialog makes it much easier for the laity (such as myself) to identify with. Thus I felt it was relatively easy to discern how I can use many of these guidelines work out my own salvation with the help of my priest and father confessor.While this book is obviously not a science text, and rarely mentions anything about science, the only faults I found with any of the guidance just happened to coincide two places where the author actually mentioned something in passing that does not quite align with current scientific findings and understanding (e.g. the nature of sleep and dreams in Chapter 46). I definitely agree with the general advice of what is said in Chapter 46 concerning what it says about dreams if I substitute dreams for fantasies, e.g. the way Psalms, Proverbs, Prophets, and saints Peter and Paul describe wicked fantasies. This is especially true when I remember how Chapters 23, 25, 26, and 27 described how to exchange both daydreams and fantasies with prayer -- and thus only have dreams that facilitate repentance (e.g. like in the stories of saints Jacob, Joseph, Daniel, and Peter).As you can see, I really this book, even when I struggled to make sense of what the author and translator were trying to say. If you like philosophy, Holy Tradition, Orthodoxy, and a better understanding of how to repent, I think you'll like this book too.

The most meaningful book I've ever read. If you're trying to live an ascetic life this book will act as your guide. The more sobriety you have, the deeper the meaning you will extract from this book. Don't rush through it and don't read multiple books while reading this one. Follow the wisdom of the book and your life will open up and you will become the spiritual person you've always wanted to be. All this is waiting for you within the covers of this book -- but you must dedicate your life to stopping the bodily passions in order to pull the truest meaning from this book and receive the transforming grace it offers you.

While this book was primarily written for monastics, it offers holy counsel for those who desire to live a God-pleasing life. The book boldly declares truth and its messages help reveal sin (that which separates us from God) in one's life: in those areas normally and easily ignored by present day Christians. Counsel and instruction on how to deal with these sins and to turn one's heart toward God is also given. It is a book that is meant to be read slowly and thoughtfully while one looks into one's OWN heart. . . not another's.

I had recalled the title of this book from my early adulthood and the impressions that it had made within my psyche in those spiritually formative years, so I searched for it on Amazon. I was very pleased to find that there was now a Kindle version available and bought it immediately. I am not sorry. The lessons found within are better and seemingly even more indispensable to aiding us in success in spiritual struggles in these most difficult times than I had remembered.

This book is not for casual reading. This is a practical book to be used by the Christian warrior. Personally, if I only had one choice other than the bible, this book would be it. Please dont read this book to gain theoretical knowledge only. Use it as a manual on how to combat your passions and love your fellow man. Christ is Risen!

This jewel of a book presents through its content how Eastern Orthodox monks and nuns would internally shape their lives to live in a monastic community. But the book goes much further into the development of spirituality through this most mystical of paths, which is indeed a singular and soul-wrenching journey--and not for the timid of heart! For those looking to deepen their understanding of Christianity and inner spiritual growth, I recommend this book. It will take the reader into his or her own heart, which becomes the Arena where all battles can be fought and won.

I cannot overstate the spiritual value one can receive by reading this book attentively. Although it is written mainly for monastics, the author relays his wisdom in very accessible terms and everyone can benefit from it. This is a book that requires note-taking and re-reading as every page is filled with spiritual jewels.

Excellent spiritual advises, in a contemporary and easy accessible from of English. This book is so intense for me that while reading I've underlined many sentences, marking them as very important. Actually the best way would be to read it slowly and chew on it. Incredible! I think I'll re-read this book many times.

Thank God for his Orthodox Christian Saints

Como já comentado aqui, trata-se de um excelente manual para um cristão entender e praticar os ensinamentos da sua religião. Do ponto de vista da prática espiritual pessoal é um dos melhores, senão o melhor conjunto de instruções que já li. Simples, direto, claro e, por isso mesmo, fácil de entender, apesar de não ser tão fácil assim cumprir as disposições estabelecidas por Cristo. * está é a sexta estrela que não pude colocar em cima. Aos que se dispuserem a lê-lo, rogo que entendam não só o texto mas a intenção do autor e consigam por suas instruções em prática.

A hidden treasure!These sacred writings are unheard of for those of us who have been raised in various protestant denominations.Thank God the ancient Church of the bible still exists today.

A systematic review leading to Jesus prayer

Excellent