Three Hundred Sayings 1.5.0

The collection titled 300 Sayings of the Holy Ascetics of the Orthodox Church, compiled by Priest George Maximov, serves as a significant resource for those wishing to engage with the spiritual wisdom of the Christian East. This anthology presents three hundred sayings from over fifty Orthodox saints hailing from diverse regions such as Palestine, Syria, Egypt, Greece, Russia, Serbia, Montenegro, and Georgia.

Notably, the work acknowledges the historical ties between the Western Church and the Orthodox tradition during the first millennium post-Christ, incorporating sayings from saints associated with present-day Italy, England, France, and Tunisia. The compilation thus embodies a rich spiritual inheritance that transcends geographical and temporal boundaries.

Spanning a period from the second half of the first century to the latter half of the twentieth century, this collection showcases a continuity of thought among Orthodox Saints. Their teachings reflect a unified spiritual reality, lending a harmonious connection throughout various epochs and locales.

As highlighted by St. Ignatius Brianchaninov in the nineteenth century, these writings can be likened to a clear night sky filled with countless stars emanating a single light, or to the vast sea with its distinct waves moving towards a common harbor. Similarly, he compares them to a well-ordered choir that sings in perfect harmony.

Overall, this curated selection of Patristic aphorisms offers valuable insights not only for Orthodox Christians but also for anyone who seeks authenticity and spiritual depth in their exploration of faith.