Symeon the New Theologian

St. Symeon (c. 949-1022) is called a theologian because of the importance of prayer in his life. The scion of a wealthy family in the provinces, Symeon was, at 11, sent to Constantinople to live with an uncle and to study. Symeon entered imperial service but resigned to enter the monastery at Studios under the direction of Symeon Eulabes, also called St. Symeon of Studios. Sent by his spiritual father to the monastery of St. Mamas, Symeon became the igumen (abbot) and gained a reputation as a compassionate leader. His rule was strict, and the
monks rebelled against it and their abbot 996-998. A dispute with the Patriarch of Constantinople led to Symeon's trial and exile in 1009. When he was
exonerated, he chose to remain at Palonkiton with his disciples; here he established the monastery of St. Marina.

Symeon believes that each person can receive and perceive the divine light through the practice of mental prayer; the vision is, nonetheless, a gift from
God. St. John Climacus was an influence on Symeon, and Symeon's writings were an influence on the hesychastic writers of the XIV Century.
Karen Rae Keck