1754–1833
Seraphim of Sarov
Monk and hermit of the Sarov forest, one of the best-loved Russian saints. He greeted every visitor as 'my joy' and taught that the aim of life is to acquire the Spirit of God.
Every line we carry
Each one links to its source, what it means, and the shirt in any of our looks.
- Acquire a peaceful spirit, and a thousand souls around you will be saved.
Seraphim's point is that calm is contagious. A person at peace changes the room, the family and the street without preaching a word. Work on your own inner quiet first; it will reach further than any argument.
E. Poselyanin, Elder Seraphim of Sarov (1893), reported saying, our translation from the Russian
- No one ever regretted keeping silent.
You can regret a word for years, but almost never the word you held back. Seraphim lived years in silence and knew its value. When in doubt, say nothing.
E. Poselyanin, Elder Seraphim of Sarov (1893), our translation from the Russian
- The true aim of our life is to acquire the Spirit of God.
Seraphim told Motovilov that all the visible religious practices are not the goal but the road to it. The goal is to be filled with the living presence of God. Keep the practices, but do not mistake them for the destination.
Conversation with N. A. Motovilov (1831, published 1903), our translation from the Russian
- To repent of a sin means not to do it again.
Feeling sorry is the start, not the finish. Real repentance shows up the next time the same choice comes around. Change the behavior and the apology becomes true.
Spiritual Instructions, 'On Repentance', our translation from the Russian