Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the ungodly. -Psalm 1:1 "For since [there have been] many laborious efforts, and countless have dripped their sweat and had their fill of distress in exhorting about what is soon to come, the foregoing word is for those struggling for piety. The one who has received the Holy Spirit … Continue reading Basil of Caesarea on Ps 1:1 →

"Inasmuch as we all naturally want to be 'the blessed,' blessedness is defined by some as a good end. Namely, by a mistaken mind, many are led to pursue this in the form of bodily pleasures—fixed on riches and reputation, as well as luxuries in the present life. It is suitable that the word should be among [the words] that it is—that is, positioned … Continue reading Blessedness →

This quote shares some interesting findings from a research project working with primary oral cultures (i.e., illiterate). Walter Ong recounts what A. R. Luria, the investigator, found in his study in the 1970s. "Self-analysis requires a certain demolition of situational thinking. It calls for isolation of the self, around which the entire lived world swirls … Continue reading An Attempt at Introspection from A Different Worldview →