Amphilochide Radovitch

This article by the hieromonk Amphilochios Radović offers a theological study of the figure of the spiritual man in the Orthodox tradition. Drawing on the Scriptures, the Church Fathers, and examples from the lives of saints, the author develops an ecclesiological and ascetic conception of the charismatic, distinct from any individualistic interpretation. The central idea is that the spiritual man can only exist within the Church, the place of the fullness of the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Three fundamental charisms are analyzed: discernment, clairvoyance, and compassionate love. The article sheds theological light on the difference between the spiritual man, bearer of uncreated grace, and the "psychic" man, limited to his natural capacities. In conclusion, the author formulates an implicit critique of certain Western tendencies that substitute virtuous activism for authentic charismatic life.