Hesychasm as a Mystical Path to Deification in the Context of Ukrainian Medieval Thought

O. G. Hudzenko; O. V. Dobrodum

doi:10.15802/ampr.v0i27.334010

Authors

O. G. Hudzenko Volyn In-Service Teachers Training Institute, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2028-7697
O. V. Dobrodum State University of Trade and Economics, Ukraine https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7651-4946

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.15802/ampr.v0i27.334010

Keywords:

anthropology of hesychasm, spiritual values, medieval Ukraine, deification, philosophical-religious thought, mystical experience

Abstract

Purpose. The main purpose of this research is to analyse the anthropology of hesychasm in medieval Ukraine in its relationship with spiritual values, to identify the role of hesychasm in shaping the spiritual outlook of Ukrainian society of that time, and to determine its impact on the modern understanding of human nature, spiritual development and the path to deification in the context of universal religious and philosophical traditions. Theoretical basis. The research is based on modern methodological approaches aimed at studying the relationship between religious anthropology and spiritual values in the context of medieval Ukraine’s hesychasm. The paper examines the philosophical and theological concepts related to hesychasm of Ukrainian thinkers of the Middle Ages, as well as their connections with modern world religious and philosophical traditions. In particular, the authors analyse the influence of hesychasm on the formation of spiritual identity, ethics and morality, as well as its significance in the context of the search for values that contribute to the spiritual development of humanity as a whole. Originality. The originality lies in the comprehensive study of the influence of hesychasm as a religious phenomenon on the formation of spiritual values in medieval Ukraine and their reflection in the context of cultural and religious processes. Conclusions. Hesychasm as a religious practice had a significant impact on the formation of spiritual values in medieval Ukraine, contributing to the development of individual and collective spirituality, as well as to the restoration of the connection with the Divine. The study of hesychasm in the context of spiritual values demonstrates how Ukrainian thinkers adapted and integrated elements of Eastern patristics and Neoplatonism, creating a unique religious and philosophical tradition. The study shows that hesychasm in Ukraine contributed to intercultural dialogue, enriching both local and global religious thought through the exchange of ideas and practices. The study of the anthropology of hesychasm is important for understanding contemporary spiritual pursuits and their roots in historical context, which can help to shape new ways of finding meaning in life and identity. It is necessary to continue studying the influence of hesychasm on contemporary cultural and religious processes, which will contribute to a deeper understanding of spirituality in the modern world.

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