Dimitri of Rostov, st The Royal Path. Teachings and Prayer Rules Translation from Russian by Adrian Tanasescu-Vlas Published 2011 Man ought to beware of straying to the left, that is towards the deceptions of sin, as well as to the right, that is towards excessive struggle, and avoid falling into the sin of pride; he must follow the royal path, that is, the path of a temperate life, of temperate struggles. St. John Chrysostom provides a telling example: “When the burden of the righteous is too heavy, their ship will sink, while if it is moderate, it floats and sails safely. Indeed, our life is similar to sailing, the world – to a sea, the body – to a ship; the soul within the body is like a man inside the ship, and a man’s deeds are the freight. If the ship is empty, the wind will cause it to capsize. If it is overloaded, it can easily sink even if there are no waves and no wind – and if waves and wind arouse, it will soon sink. It is only by moderate loading it that you will be able to sail safely.” So it is with struggles. If you lack good deeds, you will be overturned by temptations. If you attempt to bear a burden that is beyond your power, you will be soon overcome by exhaustion or pride. If, however, you struggle according to your strength, you will be free from trouble. Know this: the royal path means self-restraint in living and struggling, as well as a clear conscience. Thus, little by little, from virtue to virtue, you will climb towards heaven as if on a ladder, and you will reach the Paradise. (Saint Dimitri of Rostov) Format: 13x20 cm; 184 p. ISBN: 978-973-136252-6 “Russian Fathers” «« back