Symeon the New Theologian lived in tenth century Constantinople. His writings demonstrate twin emphases of precise theology and deep ascetic reflection. (This, despite the moniker “new,” which is generally understood as an insult in the Greek Orthodox tradition!) This 400 page volume contains 58 of his poems.

Perhaps the best way to review this volume is to share some of the poetry. Consider his reflection on love in the seventeenth hymn:

Love is the divine Spirit, (1 Jn 4.16)
the light that works and illuminates all things,
but it is not from the world,
nor in any way something of the world,
nor a creature, for it is uncreated,
and outside of all creatures,
uncreated among all creatures.
(17.236–42)

In his fifteenth hymn, Symeon reflects with gratitude on his role as Abbot in the monastery.

But, O benevolent Savior, compassionate and merciful,
Give to me, the humiliated one, divine power, so by a word
I may guide to the pasture of your divine law
the brothers whom You have given me to shepherd with sagacity,
and to rescue them for the mansions of the Kingdom on high, (Jn 14.2)
safe and sound, bright with the beauty of their virtues,
worthy worshipers of your fearful throne.
…
For You are the enjoyment, the pleasure, and the glory
of those who fervently love You forever and ever. Amen.
(15.99–105, 113–4)

In the thirty-fifth hymn, you can feel the desire of this saint, who famously received intense visions of God.

Look down from on high, my God,
and consent to appear
and to associate with a poor person!
Reveal your light by
opening the heavens to me,
or rather, unfold my mind
and enter now within me!
(35.1–7)

These hymns were made for sipping and savouring, leading the reflective reader into the praise and worship of “O God, life of all things” (23.7).

Symeon the New Theologian. Divine Eros: Hymns of St. Symeon the New Theologian. Translated by Daniel K. Griggs. St. Vladimir’s Seminary Press, 2010. Popular Patristics Series 40.