Suggestions for November 2009 theme of the month

[M.C. Steenberg]

Dear all,

While our current Theme of the Month thread (http://www.monachos.net/forum/showthread.php?t=6387) is underway with some interesting posts and comments on the topic of 'humility', I wonder if we can ponder what theme we might take for November.

I've attached a poll to this thread, allowing everyone to 'vote' on a few topics that have been proposed to me by PM and e-mail; additional options can be discussed here in the thread itself.

INXC, Dcn Matthew

[Rick H.]

I would love to see quotes supplied about theoretical knowledge.

As has been written:

"In patristic usage, 'theoretical' is directly related to its root, 'theoria,' or theological vision. Theoretical knowledge is thus the true, purified knowledge of one who sees the genuine nature of things; it is the fruit of the highest ascetical condition. It is grounded in the concrete engagement with reality as-it-is; but by divine illumination and a purity of vision, sees the full reality of what lies before it, in its fullest dimensions."

[Rick H.]

Another suggestion is "Tradition."

I have always remembered the post here on Monachos which contained the following:

"Tradition is a term that has suffered significant corruption, so perhaps we ought to just junk it."

[Owen]

As you must surely know by now, the Orthodox never junk anything. We do try to preserve it, or, if necessary, rectify and restore it. Tradition is a dirty word for Protestants and for anyone else who has not completely thrown off the Western mindset (as Khomiakov advised); ditto for works and several other terms I can't think of at the moment.

[M.C. Steenberg]

Dear Rick, those are good suggestions. Why don't we keep next month's options as those in the poll, and I'll include your suggestions (and others that may be suggested) in the listing of options for December?

INXC, Dcn Matthew

[M.C. Steenberg]

Dear all,

Just as a reminder that this is the last week to cast your vote for next month's 'Theme of the Month'. If you've not already done so, do visit the poll at the top of this thread and let your preference be known.

INXC, Dcn Matthew