Poem 133, Sonnet 68: Reflections On The Sayings Of Elder Joseph The Hesychast Poem by Samer Madbak

Here is the grandest science, greatest work
To flog yourself, this is the finest art
To name the darkness light, and radiance murk
Until all vain convictions fall apart
All thoughts that tell you: “thou art right” depart
Till every haughtiness sustains defeat
Until you wax insane, though in your heart,
Your solemn understanding is concrete
Your deep percipiency becomes complete
You eye it all, though veiled from every eye
For whosoev'r obtains the Paraclete
Is not examined, yet can all descry
Whoe'er fixates above his nous and soul
Attains Theosis, scrutinizes all.


Beirut
December 20th 2008