Volume 5. Passions and Virtues
The fifth volume of the Spiritual Counsels of Saint Paisios of Mount Athos is devoted to the struggle against the passions and the acquisition of the Christian virtues. In conversations and answers to questions, the Elder explains how to recognize and overcome self-love, pride, judging others, envy, anger and despondency, setting against them humility, love, spiritual nobility, simplicity, patience and discernment. Particular attention is given to humility and love as the foundation of the spiritual life and the path to receiving the grace of God. The Elder’s simple, vivid and often humorous counsels help a person to see their own weaknesses and to begin working actively on themselves.