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Serapion VladimirskiyOld Russian writer, archimandride of the Kyiv-Pechersk Monastery.
Country:
 Russia |
Content:
- Serafion of Kiev: A Literary and Theological Figure of Ancient Rus
- Literary Legacy
- The Theory of Divine Retribution
- Preaching in the Aftermath of Conquest
- Main Works
- Koloban, V.A. Social and Literary Activity of S.V. Vladimir, 1962.
Serafion of Kiev: A Literary and Theological Figure of Ancient Rus
Monastic and Ecclesiastical LifeSerafion was a monk of the Kiev-Pechersk Monastery, the spiritual epicenter of ancient Rus. In 1249, he was elevated to the position of Archimandrite, a title that designated him as the head of the monastery. He remained in this position until 1274, when he was appointed the Bishop of Vladimir, Suzdal, and Nizhny Novgorod.
Literary Legacy
Serafion left behind a collection of five writings, all of which are considered to be sermons, or "poucheniia." His most renowned work is titled "Sermon on the Earthquake, May We Repent from Evil and Escape God's Wrath" (1285), also known as "The Word of the Venerable Father Serafion." This sermon played a significant role in shaping the historical doctrine of the Russian Church.
The Theory of Divine Retribution
Serafion believed that the invasion and subsequent control of Rus by the Mongols was a direct result of the decline in moral and spiritual values among the people. He postulated a theory of divine retribution, whereby earthly punishments were a manifestation of God's displeasure with human behavior. This doctrine became widely accepted and influenced church teachings for centuries to come.
Preaching in the Aftermath of Conquest
After Rus lost its independence to the Mongols, Serafion's sermons emphasized humility and submission to the invaders. While historically justifiable, this approach may have reinforced the oppressive nature of the Mongol rule.
Main Works
Sermon of the Venerable Father Serafion (1285)Literature
Petukhov, E. S.V. - Russian Preacher of the XIII Century. St. Petersburg, 1888.
Gudziy, N.K. Where and When the Literary Activity of S.V. Took Place. IOlA. 1952. Vol. 2. Issue 5.
Budovnits, I.U. Social and Political Thought of Ancient Rus (XI-XIV Centuries). Moscow, 1960.
