How St. Joseph the Hesychast Conquered the Demon of Fornication

Hear how St. Joseph faced the most fearsome spiritual battle of his life, an eight year battle against lust and fornication, and how by the powerful name of Christ and his indomitable spirit he became victorious.
0:27 St. Daniel of Katounakia calls Francis (St. Joseph the Hesychast) and Fr. Arsenios to be obedient to an Elder
2:32 Their Elders: Elder Joseph and Elder Ephraim the Barrel-Maker
4:15 The perfect obedience of St. Joseph
6:43 The call to war
8:29 The battle against the demon of fornication begins
9:42 St. Joseph’s courage and dedication to be victorious
10:38 The intensity of the struggle
12:32 St. Joseph begins to despair and God grants a vision to console him
13:29 The vision
17:01 St. Joseph telling of the vision to his disciples
18:31 The warfare intensifies but St. Joseph did not give in
19:56 Physical manifestation of the demons battling against St. Joseph
22:55 Final victory
Buy "My Elder Joseph the Hesychast" written by his disciple, Elder Ephraim of Arizona, here: stanthonysmonastery.org/produ...
NOTE: Francis was the name of St. Joseph before his monastic tonsure.
______________________________
From “My Elder Joseph the Hesychast”, p. 91-105:
St. Joseph was called to this battle not because in his youth we was promiscuous and rebellious; no, “he had never had any past experience with carnal sins and was completely chaste…”
"Francis struggled intensely because he was completely aware of what was happening. Besides, it was in his character never to give in to anything improper. He fasted strictly and kept vigil all night. He only partook of dry bread and water. When he would reach the limits of exhaustion, grace would strengthen him, and thus he would continue his fearsome struggle. The more time passed, the tougher the demons' warfare became-it was nearly incessant. But he, too, was full of rage against them. He was so courageous that he said to the demons,' 'Either I’ll devour you or you'll devour me.' This is why he never lost a single battle against the demons. With such dedication to fight till death, how could the grace of God not help him and raise him to lofty spiritual states?"
“For it is a law of God: whatever causes sensual pleasure is cured by pain.” -St. Joseph
"Through self-reproach and self-knowledge I have realized my wretchedness. What are you?' I asked myself. Nothing. You aren't even a worm. When grace comes to man, it makes him God. But when it departs from him, then he is ready to fall into every heresy, every delusion, every moral deviation, and even damnation. Everything is supported by the grace of God. But grace also has its requirements before it will dwell in man. It seeks his good intentions, his willpower, and his struggle. Together with grace, man becomes an angel. Without grace, he deviates and becomes a demon." -St. Joseph
It is very likely that contemporary monastics and struggling laymen will wonder why this young ascetic beat himself so mercilessly. Even though it sounds horrible, it is not a sign of mental instability, nor is it the only such instance in ascetical literature.** God has revealed through various miracles that He accepted this form of ascesis as a martyrdom. The Sayings of the Desert Fathers and The Ladder are full of similar ascetical struggles in which the body is not being punished but rather being subdued to the ruling nous. The aim of Orthodox asceticism is to kill the passions, not the body.
After this final victory of his, he admitted to one of his spiritual children: “I was given the gift of purity: the gift of not differentiating between women and men. The passion is not roused within me at all. By the Lord's grace, I received the gift of purity, in full knowledge of what I was receiving.”
Through his indomitable determination, Father Joseph attained this lofty state, even though he had not yet reached the age of thirty-two. From his own experience, he was able to teach his spiritual children: “When a person struggles to keep his body pure and his nous chaste from filthy thoughts, his life and his prayer ascend like fragrant incense to the heavens. I have seen in practice what I am telling you. There is no sacrifice to God more fragrant than chastity of the body which is obtained with a bloody and dreadful struggle. I have much to say about this blessed chastity, the fruit of which I have tasted and eaten. But you are not able to bear now what I would say. Only one thing shall I tell you now: when such people change their underclothes-which happens every three to six months -they give off a fragrance that spreads throughout the entire house as if a refreshing vial of myrrh had been opened. This is a sign from God of blessed chastity and their most holy virginity.”
**For example, see the lives of Saints Leontius, Epiphanius, Nephon, Martinius, and Benedict.
Orthodox Wisdom is dedicated to sharing the writings and lives of the Saints of the Orthodox Church. Glory to Jesus Christ!

[@orthodox1717]

Pray for us, St. Joseph. It’s not that until I decided to actually live as an Orthodox Christian, did spiritual warfare bombard me. It’s been a couple years and it’s been very, very difficult. I have mental illness. God is allowing this. I’m wretched and need purification. Please pray for me. I’m very weak.

[@AntiochianOrthodoxy]

Holy communion healed me from mental illness (gave me the strength and joy to progress and learn) Jesus Christ our lord is so sweet focus on him and the unity with him and you will be healed in time when the mind understands and replaced all the demon ideas that is leading to the mental illness suffering, search for the root also might be chained from sins need confession then healing. Faith is the conqueror of most mental illnesses, especially anxiety.

[@orthodox1717]

@@AntiochianOrthodoxy thank you.

[@scottweeks5448]

Your testimony was a blessing. I started my journey into Orthodox Church last August. I became a catechumen just over a month ago. My struggle started within a few days. The temptations became stronger. Let us pray for each other. Lord have mercy.

[@johnhenein1330]

Rejoice! The cross we carry is never carried alone. In fact the more we embrace it with thanksgiving the greater the mercy Christ has upon us. When we weep tears of supplication and of contrite heart, the Comforter emboldens our hearts and souls with fire! It is through our humility and weakness that God illuminates His strength in us. May we never forget the true blessings from our temptations and sufferings in Jesus name. “Whoever has not experienced temptation cannot enter into the Kingdom of Heaven. Without temptations no-one can be saved.” - St. Anthony the Great

[@sustainablelife1st]

Flee temptation. You know what tempts you, get rid of it.

[@PabloCardonaMusic]

This holy man straight up brawled demons every night and still won, this makes most struggles faced today feel so manageable.

[@ownagesniper1]

I was trying to understand were the description of fights just metaphors for feeling lustful thoughts? How did he "punch a demon"? Are they dreams or visions?

[@PabloCardonaMusic]

@@ownagesniper1 I don't think it's metaphorical, i heard Fr Seraphim Rose say that if God allows it, demons can physically intervene, they can move objects and hurt people. St. Joseph said he wanted to be in the front lines of this war, so God let the battle be that intense

[@minasoliman]

The demons physically abusing him sounds similar to the stories of St. Anthony the founder of monasticism

[@vattavattaveese]

"When you truly love someone, you spontaneously do whatever you can to make them happy"

[@hunivan7672]

reading this broke my heart, because I loved someone deeply but I was cruelly mistread and rejected I still love, but Im also bitter, angry and jealous now

[@Cegros]

@@hunivan7672the solution is to pray that whoever hurt you finds complete joy and peace in all they do. Also realize that living in resentment is just as great of a sin as whatever this person may have done. We are not the ones to condemn. Also, true love wouldn’t allow for you to hold such negativity, still. I would pray daily for the guidance to see God’s will.

[@Charles-mv7sv]

​​@@hunivan7672 you have no love, you must go and forgive. Apologize for being judgemental and playing God. Be free. Forgive your dad for being weak - for not protecting you from emotions. Forgive your mother for creating you in her emotions.

[@lagoremusic]

I mean, other than his wife and kids apparently...

[@Tokmurok]

I have learned from this saints story I have not been fighting hard enough, I should fight as hard as I would someone attacking me physically. Spiritual damage is far worse.

[@markjmiller3481]

Me too my friend

[@stefanbaciu3121]

Just what I needed to hear. Lord Jesus Christ, Son of God, have mercy on us sinners!

[@yvonnebitar2649]

St. Joseph please pray for us sinners 🙏

[@austinwalker1069]

Thank you so much for posting this. I've been struggling with viewing of pornography over the last few months, and just recently, it has gotten worse than it ever has been before. This was immensely encouraging. God bless you!

[@theodoremarinis5583]

Keep fighting the good fight my brother. Don’t lose heart! ❤☦️📿

[@austinwalker1069]

@@theodoremarinis5583 Thank you so much brother!

[@SaintJoseph911]

Said a prayer for you man. I struggle with this too. Everybody is, even women are now struggling. Pray for freedom. Everyday. I believe this has helped me. Before I came back to Christ 5 months ago, I couldn't even go a few days. Now I'm going 2 to 3 weeks. Gotta keep battling no matter how tough it gets

[@timobrien72]

I have struggled with this.for years. Only just around last Christmas did ifully come-back to Christ. Not I the orthodox but my old Catholic faith and mostly because I went to a Latin Mass. 12 steps fellowships definitely help but I need a very strong faith. My priest has said you need to get married in the church (as in my darkness I married in a Protestant church) to be in full communion with Rome/God.

[@nightlysobbing]

That's cause it's Lent. Lean on Christ and He will give you Grace

[@G.TheGreek79]

I will forever be greatful to this amazing Saint! It was when I heard the life of St. Joseph, that my journey back to Christ truly began to burn with a fire! I thank you Άγιο Ιωσήφ Ο Ησυχαστή, for your intercession!

[@panocato1627]

Dear lord Jesus Christ have mercy on us all every one always and forever and ever

[@0TheCameron]

When the Father said "Eh, we'll just eat right there" I had to laugh that was the greatest response.

[@seraphim3TN]

St Joseph pray to God for us

[@livinglikeahuman7918]

Please preach for us all

[@livinglikeahuman7918]

@@dustindustindontworry-jz8dh with that logic don’t ask anyone to pray for you then.

[@livinglikeahuman7918]

@@dustindustindontworry-jz8dh Why ? You only need God. Why ask them to pray ?

[@livinglikeahuman7918]

@@dustindustindontworry-jz8dh So what’s the difference with saints?

[@seraphim3TN]

@@dustindustindontworry-jz8dh Saints are all around us and more alive than we are.

[@livinglikeahuman7918]

How beautiful our God is. Glory to God. He’s answered my prayer

[@surafel.t949]

Please continue. this is helping us to see Christ shining in the Saints' lives, which gives us hop

[@wendyflanagan5738]

I pray in true hope, Lord Jesus and all heaven, break Satan's power and keep all the demons endlessly tethered forever in HELL.

[@joshuaduncan235]

This is a great encouragement. Obviously my struggles aren’t as intense as St. Joseph’s, but it is good to know that the pattern of my life-being strengthened by God’s grace, then experiencing periods of withdrawal-is similar to his. I’m neither a saint nor an elder, so during those times of withdrawal it’s easy for me think, “I’ve gone off the path” and to lose heart. But seeing this example in St. Joseph’s life is an encouragement and a confirmation that if I follow the teachings Christ has given through His Church then I will also be purified of my passions. Pray for me!

[@bondservantandbrideoflogos7570]

Most Holy Theotokos intercede for us. Jesus Christ Our Lord and God save us. Holy Spirit dwell in us, counsel and help us. For the Glory of the Father. Blessed be the Holy Trinity, who has mercy on us, though we transgress against heaven and earth.

[@thekingslady1]

​@@dustindustindontworry-jz8dh why are you on here?

[@shivabreathes]

Like all Orthodox Christians I struggle constantly with temptations, bad thoughts, wandering imagination etc. I sometimes feel despair at my condition. Lately, this came to me durimg the current Lenten fasting season, I’ve been thinking of the idea of ‘circumcision’. Not in the sense of a physical circumcision, but a mental and spiritual one. Whenever a bad or inappropriate thought arises, I try to imagine myself “circumcising” it, cutting it off, literally, with a scissor. This seems to work. It makes me wonder if this was the original idea behind Jewish circumcision, as a symbol for the cutting off of sin from ourselves.

[@haadidave]

God bless you

[@damianhuman]

Thank you so much for this video!

[@hokulani8]

This entire book.. is so beautiful! If I would of known the impact it would have on me. I would of read it a long time ago. It really made me feel so close to them.. and my love for Christ burn stronger! I cannot convey how important it has become in my life and I thank God for them! May we have their blessed prayers! Amin! 🙏🏼❤

[@MontanaBotFarmer]

Thank you for narrating this chapter so beautifully. What a profound blessing!

[@27223]

St Joseph pray for us

[@silvina9715]

Extraordinary incredible story!!! When we heard the life of this holly people we learn that we know nothing about God and his power and the miracles that could take place in a soul that truly seek the purpose of life , Wich is be one with the Eternal and Holly God in Jesus Christ our Savior! My soul is grateful and humbled for this video!!!! God bless this channel and the author!!! 🙌🙏🕯️💖

[@clydedoris5002]

This guy suffered more in a night than i do in a decade

[@Ella_1994]

OH! the simplicity of our holly fathers!! may his blessings be with us!

[@mitchiarikov2614]

Holy St. Joseph, pray to God for us

[@surafel.t949]

OMG, thank you. Those are very helpful since we are suffering from this

[@Sofiahansen_3069]

Seriously God bless you for your videos, especially ones like these, they are my daily listenings - please continue to distribute this fuel for the fires that burn in our hearts

[@Slivitz1]

Are you Orthodox?

[@thelastgeneration1926]

God blessed you and bless you too

[@areyoutheregoditsmedave]

this is the first story ive heard abt St joseph the hesychast. i love this man. he’s wild.

[@renafielding945]

Myself. Myself. On my own I am a thug. What can God do with me? I am so full of sin. 😢

[@Cal-ge8vl]

Axios! Acquisition Of The Holy Spirit, Amen.

[@thattimestampguy]

2:32 The Elder’s Ephraim and Joseph 4:16 Francis & Fr Arsenios visited Ephraim and Joseph at the end of 1923. 4:46 ❤️ An Obedience of Love 5:14 Behaved like Angels. Doing whatever was necessary, even anticipating what would then be asked of them. 5:41 Removing Ego from the center, and having God there. 6:52 The Battle Against Fornication. 7:15 Theotic Noetic Vision. 8:30 Fierce Carnal Warfare against Fornication. 9:20 The greater the battle, the more intensity. 9:54 He fasted strictly and kept vigil all night. Exhausted, he would be strengthened by Grace. 10:42 ❤️☦️🙏🏼 (Noetic Endurance) 11:45 Have Pity Lord 🙏🏼❤️☦️ 13:08 Collapse and Wavering 🙏🏼 Sorrow and Despair 😩 13:48 Visiting Elder Daniel, The Hesychast. 17:05 Wretched Nothing. Beneath Worms. 17:36

[@cuntdracula1]

An absolute champion and warrior. Guided by love of God.

[@EOShorts]

8 years.

[@samuelresz71]

Woah. When St. Joseph tells you that you can't handle something... It's safe to say you can't.

[@lichberserker]

Instead of saying this is how he conquered the demon of fornication, this should be called how he crippled the demons in hand-to-hand physical combat

[@Tokmurok]

Imagine having such a shallow take.

[@lichberserker]

@@Tokmurok imagine being an asshole, oh wait! Evan, you don't have to imagine! ;)

[@lostsheepforchrist8927]

What is the name of the book?

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

My Elder Joseph the Hesychast See the link in the description.

[@Hebrews_412_KJV]

What must one do to go to heaven?

[@thomassutton4485]

Guess I need to go cane shopping. Lord have mercy!

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

I would ask your spiritual father first before doing that! He will know best what you are ready for.

[@thomassutton4485]

@@OrthodoxWisdom Oh, it was just a joke brother but, appreciate the response! I’d be a cautionary tale in a weeks time if I started hit myself with a cane lol!

[@doug5434]

❤❤❤🎉

[@anewrnn]

What is the panagia?

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

The Virgin Mary. Panagia means "all holy"

[@irisbristow2977]

I do not understand what noose is or what noatic prayer is

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

Let me know if this helps: A word about the nous: The English word that best conveys the meaning of the Greek word "νοῦς" is the word "mind." The Fathers use this term with several other meanings, too. They mainly refer to the nous as the soul (the "spiritual nature" of a man-St. Isaac the Syrian) and the heart (or "the essence of the soul"-vid. Philokalia, Vol. I, p. 109, 73). More specifically, it constitutes the innermost aspect of the heart (St. Diadochos §§79, 88). However, they also refer to it as the "eye of the soul" (St. John of Damascus, The Orthodox Faith, FC Vol. 37, p. 236) or "the organ of theoria" (Makarian Homilies) which "is engaged in pure prayer" (St. Isaac the Syrian). They call the energy of the nous "a power of the soul" (St. Gregory Palamas, On the Holy Spirit, 2, 9) "consisting of thoughts and conceptual images" (St. Gregory Palamas, On the Hesychasts, p. 410, 3). However, the nous is more commonly known as the energy of the soul, whereas the heart is known as the essence of the soul. (From the glossary of “Counsels from the Holy Mountain” by Elder Ephraim of Philotheou and Arizona) There are also a few videos on this channel that speak more about noetic prayer, such as “On Watchfulness and Noetic Prayer” by Elder Ephraim of Arizona

[@dismahusername8309]

@@OrthodoxWisdomI was tought that nous was our spirit

[@joylarson9040]

What about his wife and children? Who took care of them?😢

[@meronmichael]

Surely the demons are not the Ethiopians thought in the sense of the nation but of the literal translation of the "burnt face"?

[@Walker888]

Lord forgive me, the thought of abandoning your children having them die and leaving your wife does not seem like love, it seems selfish. He did not obey his responsibility to his family he created. Sacred marraige the miracle of life from their union. It would be the parallel of an unbelievable idea of our father abandoning his covenant with his creation. How so shall I respect him? Lord Have mercy on Me a sinner for what I not understand.

[@johnnyd2383]

We often look at the things from our limited perspective, but from God's it may look completely different. We believe that God takes from this world everyone at the best possible moment.

[@lokdog257]

This story makes it sound like their obedience didn't come from love, but a selfish desire to become and Elder. That was the stated point of sending the two young monks to the two old monks, so that they might become an Elder.

[@seraphim3TN]

you have to read the book if you don't understand

[@MarcusTheDarkness]

So, he’s referring to demons as “Ethiopians”?

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

Yes but don't think he is calling the Ethiopians demons

[@yenenehw]

While it is regrettable, it seems that he is unfairly linking the darkness of the demon's behavior to the skin color, particularly the black skin of Ethiopians. However, I'm certain that he didn't intend to extend this association to Black Ethiopian Christians. As a man of God, had he sought guidance from God, he would've been made aware of the presence of numerous hermits and monks who dwell in the deserts and caves of Ethiopia whose level of holiness exceeds his own. ✝Black Ethiopians are a blessed nation, as demonstrated by Amos 9:7, where Yahweh declares, "Are you not as the sons of Ethiopia to Me, O sons of Israel?" Furthermore, King David narrates in Psalm 68:31, "Envoys will come out of Egypt; Ethiopia will quickly stretch out her hands to God." ✝It is worth noting that before the Greeks accepted the one God, Ethiopians had a rich history of devotion to the worship of the God of Israel for over a millennium prior to the birth of Christ, then through the encounter between the Apostle Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch, as described in Acts 8:26-40, Ethiopia became the first nation to establish Christianity as its state religion in 1 AD. Ethiopians posses a distinct alphabet, Bible, calendar, and Mass celebration, all of which have endured the test of time. Presently, Ethiopia is home to just over 800 monasteries. ✝St. Irenaeus (130 AD), in his work AGAINST HERESIES III.12.8, highlights Ethiopia as the first recipient of the Divine Word's mysteries through the Apostle Philip, as described in Acts 8:26-40. ✝St. Eusebius (339 AD), shares a narrative that aligns with Irenaeus's account. In his chronological account of Early Christianity (ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY: BOOK II) from the 1st - 4th century, Eusebius states that the Ethiopian Eunuch was the first of the Gentiles to receive the Divine Word from Philip through revelation [Acts 8:26-40 ], and was the first to return to his native land and preach the Gospel of Christ fulfilling the prophecy that "Ethiopia shall stretch out her hand to God" [Psalm 68:31]. ✝The Ethiopian monks and hermits adhere to a highly ascetic lifestyle characterized by simplicity and self-denial. They typically wear a single garment and choose to forgo footwear. Many of them abstain from lying down on beds and instead take short naps while seated (3-4hrs/day), dedicating most of their time to prayer. Even their sustenance is austere, with bread so bitter that it was difficult for me to consume. Fasting is rigorously observed throughout the year, some monks eating only once a week while others every three days, always refraining from eating before sunset. They maintain a continuous practice of prayer, focusing on the prayer of the heart and recitation of Psalms day and night. Their entire existence revolves around Christ, with constant remembrance of Him occupying their thoughts 24 hours a day. I had the honor of spending a week in the presence of a supremely humble monk who dedicated himself to praying outdoors, from dusk till dawn, for an incredible span of 25 years, clad only in undergarments and with his legs submerged in water. It was a truly remarkable experience and a blessing to witness his dedicated devotion. ✝The saintly monks and hermits of Black Ethiopia, hidden treasures of Africa, consciously abstain from being filmed or discussed on platforms like KZbin. Instead, they opt to maintain anonymity, humbly devoting themselves to the Lord, knowing that their struggles will be rewarded in the eternal realm of heave

[@HiwotGezat]

While it is regrettable, it seems that he is unfairly linking the darkness of the demon's behavior to the skin color, particularly the black skin of Ethiopians. *_However, I'm certain that he didn't intend to extend this association to Black Ethiopian Christians._* As a man of God, had he sought guidance from God, he would've been made aware of the presence of numerous hermits and monks who dwell in the deserts and caves of Ethiopia whose level of holiness exceeds his own. ✝Black Ethiopians are a blessed nation, as demonstrated by Amos 9:7, where Yahweh declares, *_"Are you not as the sons of Ethiopia to Me, O sons of Israel?"_* Furthermore, King David narrates in Psalm 68:31, *_"Envoys will come out of Egypt; Ethiopia will quickly stretch out her hands to God."_* ✝It is worth noting that while the Greeks worshiped goddesses and gods, Ethiopians had a rich history of devotion to the worship of the One God of Israel for over a millennium prior to the birth of Christ, then through the encounter between the Apostle Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch, as described in Acts 8:26-40, Ethiopia became the first nation to establish Christianity as its state religion in 1 AD. Ethiopians posses a distinct alphabet, Bible, calendar, and Mass celebration, all of which have endured the test of time. Presently, Ethiopia is home to just over 800 monasteries. ✝St. Irenaeus (130 AD), in his work AGAINST HERESIES III.12.8, highlights *_Ethiopia as the first recipient of the Divine Word's mysteries through the Apostle Philip, as described in Acts 8:26-40._* ✝St. Eusebius (339 AD), shares a narrative that aligns with Irenaeus's account. In his chronological account of Early Christianity (ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY: BOOK II) from the 1st - 4th century, *_Eusebius states that the Ethiopian Eunuch was the first of the Gentiles to receive the Divine Word from Philip through revelation [Acts 8:26-40 ], and was the first to return to his native land and preach the Gospel of Christ fulfilling the prophecy that "Ethiopia shall stretch out her hand to God" [Psalm 68:31]._* ✝The Ethiopian monks and hermits adhere to a highly ascetic lifestyle characterized by simplicity and self-denial. *_They typically wear a single garment and choose to forgo footwear. Many of them abstain from lying down on beds and instead take short naps while seated (3-4hrs/day), dedicating most of their time to prayer. Even their sustenance is austere, with bread so bitter that it was difficult for me to consume. Fasting is rigorously observed throughout the year, some monks eating only once a week while others every three days, always refraining from eating before sunset. They maintain a continuous practice of prayer, focusing on the prayer of the heart and recitation of Psalms day and night. Their entire existence revolves around Christ, with constant remembrance of Him occupying their thoughts 24 hours a day._* I had the honor of spending a week in the presence of a supremely humble monk who dedicated himself to praying outdoors, from dusk till dawn, for an incredible span of 25 years, clad only in undergarments and with his legs submerged in water. It was a truly remarkable experience and a blessing to witness his dedicated devotion. ✝The saintly monks and hermits of Black Ethiopia, hidden treasures of Africa, consciously abstain from being filmed or discussed on platforms like KZbin. *_Instead, they opt to maintain anonymity, humbly devoting themselves to the Lord, knowing that their struggles will be rewarded in the eternal realm of heaven._*

[@HiwotGezat]

It seems that he is linking the demon's behavior to the skin color. *_However, I'm certain that he didn't intend to extend this association to Black Ethiopian Christians._* As a man of God, had he sought guidance from God, he would've been made aware of the presence of numerous hermits and monks who dwell in the deserts and caves of Ethiopia whose level of holiness exceeds his own. ✝Black Ethiopians are a blessed nation, as demonstrated by Amos 9:7, where Yahweh declares, *_"Are you not as the sons of Ethiopia to Me, O sons of Israel?"_* Furthermore, King David narrates in Psalm 68:31, *_"Envoys will come out of Egypt; Ethiopia will quickly stretch out her hands to God."_* ✝It is worth noting that before the Greeks accepted the one God, Ethiopians had a rich history of devotion to the worship of the God of Israel for over a millennium prior to the birth of Christ, then through the encounter between the Apostle Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch, as described in Acts 8:26-40, Ethiopia became the first nation to establish Christianity as its state religion in 1 AD. Ethiopians posses a distinct alphabet, Bible, calendar, and Mass celebration, all of which have endured the test of time. *_Presently, Ethiopia is home to just over 800 monasteries._* ✝St. Irenaeus (130 AD), in his work AGAINST HERESIES III.12.8, highlights *_Ethiopia as the first recipient of the Divine Word's mysteries through the Apostle Philip, as described in Acts 8:26-40._* ✝St. Eusebius (339 AD), shares a narrative that aligns with Irenaeus's account. In his chronological account of Early Christianity (ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY: BOOK II) from the 1st - 4th century, *_Eusebius states that the Ethiopian Eunuch was the first of the Gentiles to receive the Divine Word from Philip through revelation [Acts 8:26-40 ], and was the first to return to his native land and preach the Gospel of Christ fulfilling the prophecy that "Ethiopia shall stretch out her hand to God" [Psalm 68:31]._* ✝The Ethiopian monks and hermits adhere to a highly ascetic lifestyle characterized by simplicity and self-denial. They typically wear a single garment and choose to forgo footwear. Many of them abstain from lying down on beds and instead take short naps while seated (3-4hrs/day), dedicating most of their time to prayer. Even their sustenance is austere, with bread so bitter that it was difficult for me to consume. Fasting is rigorously observed throughout the year, some monks eating only once a week while others every three days, always refraining from eating before sunset. They maintain a continuous practice of prayer, focusing on the prayer of the heart and recitation of Psalms day and night. Their entire existence revolves around Christ, with constant remembrance of Him occupying their thoughts 24 hours a day. *_I had the honor of spending a week in the presence of a supremely humble monk who dedicated himself to praying outdoors, from dusk till dawn, for an incredible span of 25 years, clad only in undergarments and with his legs submerged in water. It was a truly remarkable experience and a blessing to witness his dedicated devotion._* ✝The saintly monks and hermits of Black Ethiopia, hidden treasures of Africa, consciously abstain from being filmed or discussed on platforms like KZbin. *_Instead, they opt to maintain anonymity, humbly devoting themselves to the Lord, knowing that their struggles will be rewarded in the eternal realm of heaven._*

[@Daniel_Popov]

Ok. But, if chastity and virginity are the reqierments for all of us to get to heaven, how the humanity will survive? The family is also God's invention. Genesis 1:28. For example I want to get married but somthing makes me think that I have no right to want it because of my disgusting sins in the past. But I 'm fighting with sexual sin, sometimes the battle is very hard and prayer is the only way to escape, and then I recieve help from God.

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

A common theme in Orthodoxy is that many things are "both/and" and not "either/or." First, chastity encompasses the marriage bed, for chastity is distinct from virginity and chastity in marriage means healthy sexual relationship with your spouse. Additionally, chastity in marriage means abstaining during fasting seasons and fasting days, from oral, anal, etc. The marriage bed isn't a free-for-all even of you're married. There are canons and teachings from saints that point to all this. Fr. Kosmos of Orthodox Talks has a handful of great talks addressing these issue. Also, here is an article that covers this pretty well: theorthodoxlife.wordpress.com/2015/05/18/sacred-seed-sacred-chamber/ Back to your original question: God certainly desires some to become monastics and some to be married and have children. Both paths are blessed. Christ refers to the monastic life when he says, "and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it" (Matt 19:12). Do not despair. No one has a right to be married; all is a gift from God. No matter how much one is like St. Mary of Egypt, a former prostitute, or St. Joseph the Hesychast, a virgin and chaste from his youth, all of us can become saints and be in heaven with Christ.

[@Daniel_Popov]

​@@OrthodoxWisdom Thank you so much for your response. It helps me to understand things better. God bless you! 🙏❤

[@alexeios]

@@OrthodoxWisdom my problem is that I’m not sure if I’m meant to be a monastic but I’m almost positive I’m meant to be celibate, but people think it’s weird.

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

Do you have a spiritual father? If not, seek one out. Seek out a true guide to help guide you.

[@deanaburnham9571]

Oh thats horrible to abandon his wife! And to pray and his poor children begin to die until only two are left! Oh my God----this is evil! What a bad father he was! Oh my God. I cannot believe this EVIL! WHY did he not apply humility and service to his family whom God gave him! I am going to have to go to my spiritual father! This is damaging to my understanding of faith in the Orthodox Church. I am scandalized that this man of whom you spoke would actually pray to the extent that on his own WILLFILLNESS he prayed selfishly and watched his children die one by one and set terror into his poor wife whom he desired to ABANDON! This sounds more like evil witchcraft! How can his breech of the Sacrament of Holy Matrimony be anything but willful selfishness? I thank God that St Joseph the Hesychast was not one who did this. I have a question. Was all of this self denunciation for self? Or to pray to offer this to God for mankind? Or was this just self indulgence to accomplish visions of heaven? This sounds so much like Buddhism. I do not understand this "instead of my beating them (demons)....despair. How did our beloved Saint not believe that Christ would accept his repentance? It seems he complicated everything and doubted in the mercy and forgiveness of Christ. As I sit here, I'm in awe of St Joseph's battle! And how Christ made him victorious! I'm in appreciation of how he then taught his monks and helped them to grow in prayer and holiness. The words he spoke about falling to damnation seems a direct contradiction of Scripture about how God seals us and we cannot be snatched from him. Yes I see how Holy Orthodoxy requires that we participate in God's Grace. That that is the fruit of faith that is alive and not dead. I also appreciate, but I'm certain my understanding is shallow at this time, but I appreciate that there was community and service to one another. Sometimes living as a hermit seems very self indulgent if it is not intended to serve the good of others. Praying for the salvation of the world's souls would seem to "justify" indulging in such introversion. Otherwise it seems like a method of attempting to reach spiritual highs by stimulating DMT through suffering. The suffering seems transformative of the character and subduing of self-will so there's a bit of a dilemma my understanding encounters at this point. I do not understand but I can seek.

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

That example is included in the text but isn't necessarily one to follow. In general, once you marry you stay married and do not become a monk. But let's not assume we know all the details nor assume that the example of this elder is meant for us to imitate. I don’t know anyone, clergy or laity, who would advise a husband leave their wife and kids to become a monk.

[@deanaburnham9571]

@@OrthodoxWisdom Yes exactly! Thank you for mentioning that aspect. It's shocking to me that that scenario worked Its way into the legend. It's really horrible! Terrifying to imagine. I'd never let my children if I had little ones read anything like that for fear it would scare them, anger them that a parent would do such a thing and that the Church would allow it, support or encourage it! Some of these legends have aspects that are outlandish and haven't been embellished by the writer. It can make a person wonder. It's like injecting something horrific into an otherwise wholesome religiously correct and beautiful story about the Saints. I'm not intending to be critical of you for presenting this however. Not at all. And I appreciate that you've responded kindly to my shock. I appreciate that you acknowledge the Church wouldn't support the actualized practice of breaking up families. The legend should have put in more detail. Just like Pope Francis, confusing the Roman Church these days. Lack of clarity. Yet there are some things one couldn't explain away such as Pachamama on the hallowed ground of St Peters burial place apparently! Sacrilegious. God help us!

[@deanaburnham9571]

@@horao8417 I agree across the board!

[@deanaburnham9571]

@@icxcnika2037 There was no "mission emergency" required in which the Great Commission was a clear demand. Not at all. He selfishly wanted the monastic life. That's hardly leaving anything for the sake of Christ. There was no demand by Christ on that man whatsoever. In fact if there was a demand that Christ and the Church made it was that man stay and face his life bravely by being a good husband and father. His job was to get his children to heaven. It is unfortunate in my opinion that you are not more "emotional." I have a righteous indignation towards anyone who cannot look at that aspect of the "legendary story" and not find the evil in the man's selfishness, and then goes on to teach this to others. God values family and if people broke up families and encouraged them to pray their children dead, leave the Sacrament of Matrimony and abandon spouse, we'd have the very ungodly secular world we have today--and it would be in the Church too. If the man's family was evil then I can see him wanting escape. But that's certainly a vital aspect of the story isn't it? You're defending him saying he left for Christ. When actually staying for Christ would have likely fulfilled his religious commitment to Christ and he'd have received many graces to share with his family---especially if they were wayward! All the more reason to win them for Christ. Why did you tell me who the author was? Is that suppose to change my conscience? Make me lie and say that an evil is actually good? To make me say the story was not poorly told when it was? To say we were given enough information to make a rational moral and spiritual judgment? Or to make me say that we Orthodox cannot think morally, spiritually, intelligently? Well. May God have mercy on me. Your effort was useless in that regard

[@deanaburnham9571]

@@icxcnika2037 Well yes, a bit outraged. And we do not know the context of his familial abandonment. True. The story was poorly told in that one area. Forgive me a sinner.

[@Theoretically-ko6lr]

Glory to God ❤

[@Buffmonke_gt34]

Please forgive me, but it sounds like Fr. Joseph dealt with some kind of psychosis. 🤷🏻‍♂️ If I’m honest, I would’ve probably reacted to him like one of the monks who were disturbed by his ways… just being real. Lord, Have Mercy.

[@vladvalo]

Oh mark lol ❤

[@briangilley5093]

So.. why did he wait so long to use the name of Jesus Christ? Doesn't anyone know that the flesh alone has no powere over spiritual things? This is why priests and monks have such problems, they put there strength in saints. They believe that they themselves are holy when it's impossible!

[@threestars2164]

Something tells me rabbi yeshua ben yosef would not understand this sufi idea.

[@dekz6217]

Just a whimp

[@progresstothestars]

You mean Baal? Simple. I called on my late nana, God and Micheal. Thats it.

[@DesertsOfHighfleet]

can you explain to me Matthew 23:9? And call no man your father on earth, for you have one Father, who is in heaven. Why do then Orthodoxy and Catholicism use that title? The verses before say all of us are brethren so there's no need to raise someone above us thanks

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

Consider what St. Paul says: “For though you might have ten thousand instructors in Christ, yet you do not have many fathers; for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel” (1 Cor 4:15). St. Paul seems rather comfortable calling himself a father to the church in Corinth. Also this video offers a helpful response from Fr. Josiah Trenham to the common question you asked. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oGWpXqulrJiJsMk

[@DesertsOfHighfleet]

@@OrthodoxWisdom I have to say; I've changed my mind about this, thank you very much)

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

Glory to God! If you have further questions about why the Orthodox do what we do, don’t hesitate to ask. Prayers for you.

[@johnbautiste]

Have a hard time respecting men who leave their wives for monasticism such as his elder did. The sin of Adam plagues even the monastics who should have rejected such a man. Sounds more like this young ascetic should have married and had children. God is gracious even to the mentally ill among us I suppose.

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

That example is included in the text but isn't necessarily one to follow. In general, once your marry you stay married and do not become a monk. But let's not assume we know all the details nor assume that the example of this elder is meant for us to imitate.

[@goober5297]

why are the demons ethiopians? can someone explain how that is not racist

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

It may sound that way to our modern ears but it’s certainly not meant that way.

[@goober5297]

@@OrthodoxWisdom perhaps not but how would anyone know that and how would they know what he really meant? it is not otherwise clear. i think it begs an added explanation as to not alienate potential seekers of the faith. if you were an earnest ethiopian watching this, how would you take it? it would drive them away, which cannot be good for the church

[@OrthodoxWisdom]

I wholeheartedly agree with you, though I’m not sure I can’t speak authoritatively on this issue. I know that using the term “Ethiopians” for demons is not new in Orthodox ascetic literature. I’m not sure how common but I have seen it before. Given that this term, I believe, is largely used in ascetic literature I could easily see that if one is so deeply and simply embracing that “there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither bond nor free, there is neither male nor female: for ye are all one in Christ Jesus” (Gal 3:28) then when writing to an audience of similar disposition would not risk one concluding there is any racism involved whatsoever. It simply a shorthand for referring to a dark being, not that those dark skinned humans in Ethiopia and all of Africa are inferior in any way. Any saint has the love of God in them and would embrace a dark-skinned man as one for whom Christ died. If these texts were written with a non-Orthodox audience in mind, especially in modern times, then a different term might well be used. Does this help a little? I appreciate your concern and agree that it needs some kind of explanation for most people.

[@goober5297]

@@OrthodoxWisdom thanks for the thoughtful response. i understand it’s certainly unfair to hold past church fathers to modern standards of egalitarianism and i agree the true spirit of Orthodoxy would condemn racial prejudice in any form. but the conflation of black skin and evilness is indeed well-documented in ascetic literature, i’ve found upon quick research. whether it demonizes ethiopians or ethiopianizes demons, it undeniably makes africans an evil “other” when taken at face value. i think it’s difficult to leave this part of church history unaddressed, unfortunately, but the best we can do now is understand it and refrain from perpetuating it.

[@pola5392]

why do they always say 'Pangea' and 'Holy Theotokos'? I cannot understand how they can act as if Mary is capable of any kindness or mercy that Christ Himself is not?

[@valerieeee2470]

You’re mistaken. We do not believe Mary is capable of anything Christ is not. That’s heresy. We call her Holy because she gave birth to Christ, God the Word. We are trinitarian. But we venerate Mary.

[@seraphim3TN]

because the Theotokos is more honorable than the Cherubim and more glorious beyond compare than the Seraphim. She is above all angels and there would be no salvation of she didn't agree.

[@pola5392]

@@seraphim3TN I can understand the other comment but this is something different, what do you mean by 'if she didn't agree'? Do you not believe God couldn't have brought about His will by using another virgin to conceive Christ and continue His divine Will?

[@ownagesniper1]

​@@pola5392 lol but then THAT virgin would be the Holy Theotokos and were back to square one.

[@TheExtremetraveler]

​@pola5392 the reason for her prominence in the story of many of the ascetics - is because Mary, who was human of course like us, lived a life of obedience to God from her earliest days - she was made and preserved for her role as spoken by the prophets of the old testament (which is why in Orthodoxy she is often referred to as 'the burning bush' or the 'ark of the new covenant') because she held within her the divinity of the word and law of God - but was not consumed. Of course God can do anything, but if you look at the foreshadowing and the prophesies, and read of her youth in the temple - she was made the perfect vessel to contain the son of God within her, she who is "blessed among women." And so the monks who dedicate their life to prayer and obedience, who have to fight against worldy thoughts and urges themselves, make room for only one woman in their heart and mind - the mother of God. However, as holy a person, and as obedient and grace filled as she was - she is ultimately the conduit to the incarnation of the only one we worship - the one triune God. Even in her icons which we venerate out of love and appreciation for her grace and humility before God - she always, ultimately- directs our attention to Christ.

[@xzxz-uy2lm]

It's easy just go broke no money no boom boom

[@josephsalvolo3727]

A long video about a problem that can be answered quickly. Marry a fish house wife, it will all make sense.

[@beetogarcia9983]

Demons? Lol