QUESTION:

I have read some books and articles about the "Palamite controversy," which took place between Saint Gregory Palamas and the Latins. I still do not understand exactly what the heart of the argument was about. It all seems so remote and philosophical, but it is supposed to be very important. Can you give me a brief, simple, direct explanation about the real meaning of the controversy?

REPLY:

The answer might not mean much to those who have not read about the matter, and I do not wish to become involved in giving a history of it.

The very essence of the controversy between Saint Gregory Palamas and the Roman Catholics was this:

"Can God be truly known from a living experience with Him or not."

The Orthodox answer is yes. God is truly known in a personal way from an actual living experience with Him. God does reveal Himself to us in a direct way.

The answer of the Latins was that God can be known about through His created works, but not directly through the living experience of His own energies.

Forgive me if I add something a bit complicated. I have already answered your question, but I have to add that the Orthodox position is that when we experience the energies of God, we are really experiencing God Himself (His energies are not created symbols of Him, but His actual touch). The Latins held that when we experience God's energies, we are only coming into contact with a created work, and not with God Himself.

Obviously, there is more to the controversy than this, but you wanted the essence of the matter, and anyone who wishes to pursue it further will find much material to read.

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