Casting Fire: Day of the Holy Spirit

[gregory77]

"I came to send fire on the earth, and how I wish it were already kindled!  But I have a baptism to be baptized with, and how distressed I am till it is accomplished!  - Jesus Christ 

In honor of the "Day of The Holy Spirit,"  this 4th episode on "Divine Eros: Hymns of Saint Symeon The New Theologian" is a reading of hymn 30 that explores the connection between the hard quote by Jesus in connection with the baptism of the Holy Spirit.

Click here to watch this episode:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SDPNBtLu30

[William]

Divine eros?

[gregory77]

Divine eros?

Yep, Divine Eros.

Here is a link to the intro episode in which I address the term:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9uRKHBOqIqY

I would encourage you to buy the book and if you have a kindle (app).  It would be best and cheaper to buy the ebook version.   Also in the book "The Mountain of Silence,"  Fr. Maximos address the meaning of the term as well, very nicely.  That book is available as an ebook as well.   Take care...

[Volnutt]

The definition goes back to Plato. The idea that you can be attracted to someone and want to have intimate fellowship with them without desiring them sexually, this is the first stage of the famous Platonic love. God "erotically" desires us in this way and we should desire Him.

[gregory77]

The definition goes back to Plato. The idea that you can be attracted to someone and want to have intimate fellowship with them without desiring them sexually, this is the first stage of the famous Platonic love. God "erotically" desires us in this way and we should desire Him.

You are referring to the symposium, right???  It has been awhile, since I read that last.  Thanks for the reminder.  It is interesting Plato had a similar idea that can be found in the language used through out the Old Testament describing the relationship between God and Israel.  For example the Songs of Songs.  I basically think this idea is just hardwired into the human makeup.   That is why it has such a wide appeal to a lot of different people over the ages.  Thanks for the feedback...

[Volnutt]

I've not read The Symposium myself, just going off summaries of it. But, you're welcome

I agree, it is hardwired. I detest our culture's attempts to move away from this. All of a sudden any expression of male affection is "gay."

Middle Easterners must chuckle at our misapplied prudery-while some "scholars" blaspheme the Lord and His Beloved Disciple and the holy friendship of Sts. David and Jonathan.

[gregory77]

I've not read The Symposium myself, just going off summaries of it. But, you're welcome

I agree, it is hardwired. I detest our culture's attempts to move away from this. All of a sudden any expression of male affection is "gay."

Middle Easterners must chuckle at our misapplied prudery-while some "scholars" blaspheme the Lord and His Beloved Disciple and the holy friendship of Sts. David and Jonathan.

Yeah, I really don't have a clue as to what Middle Easterners think.  I suspect they have a variety of opinions.   It is a diverse place.

Yeah, I wouldn't know about any expression kindness or affection being a problem.   I suspect it is probably just folks that might be insecure with themselves.  The culture is full of sexual messages, so I'm sure it gets overwhelming for some folks.

[Volnutt]

Oh, sorry. I just meant in general, Middle Eastern attitudes to male affection are a lot less inhibited.

You're right about sexual imagery.

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