How do our sins affect our knowledge of God? Insights from Saint Symeon

Saint Symeon, a significant figure in Eastern Orthodox theology, teaches that our sins erect a barrier between us and God, impeding our spiritual connection with Him. This barrier, he explains, can only be surmounted through persistent repentance. While this barrier exists, Symeon asserts, “It cuts us off from the light, leaving us to grope in darkness." 

We must know ourselves before we can expect to know God who is so incomparably superior to us. 

Symeon says, 

For to speak about God and divine things without illumination, while deprived of the Holy Spirit, simply shows our ignorance—and rightly so, for if we knew ourselves accurately, we would never reckon ourselves worthy to look at heaven to see the light of the world, not even to walk on earth; instead we would run to bury our selves under the dirt.

According to Saint Symeon, those who speak of God with pride, lacking the Holy Spirit's guidance, engage in pseudo-theology, relying solely on worldly wisdom. The Scriptures affirm that wisdom belongs to God alone, and as fallible beings, we all need repentance and heartfelt confession. This journey involves seeking a spiritual mentor who can guide us towards a sincere confession before God. Symeon's vision of repentance encompasses trust in one's spiritual mentor, obedience in daily tasks, care for others, and following the teachings of Jesus Christ. True repentance, he suggests, dispels ignorance and fosters a deeper understanding of God. "Becoming rich in the communion of our faith" is achieved through repentance, which purifies us and invites the Holy Spirit's illumination.

This journey of spiritual growth takes place within the Church and aligns with the teachings of Holy Scripture. It is a humble path, following in the footsteps of Jesus.

Saint Symeon warns against following unenlightened preachers. He advises avoiding those who have not been spiritually purified and who lack a deep, mystical understanding of God's commandments. He references biblical examples like Elijah, who was taken to heaven in a chariot of fire (2 Kings 2:11), and Jesus, who ascended with a host of angels, to illustrate the need for divine assistance in elevating our minds to understand heavenly mysteries. We should adhere to the teachings of the Apostles and be wary of those who rely solely on philosophy and intellectual arguments, as their understanding is limited.

Symeon concludes with a vision of spiritual fulfillment: “There lies the tranquil abode of incorruptible life, the joyful gathering of those who celebrate in the Spirit. To them be all glory, honor, and adoration, now and forever, and through the ages.” This is the ultimate destination for those who walk the path of humility and spiritual insight.

Reference: https://maksimologija.org/2020/11/16/st-symeon-the-new-theologian-theological-discourse-2/