I love the title of this article. Truly an awesome mystery is hidden within the Theotokos.
It makes me to think of a certain moment in Orthodox history, although unique in its chronology: when a famous emperor held a bride show to pick a wife.
A notable virgin named Kassiani was there. He saw this woman's bravery and virtue and with boldness came over to her and challenged her with a riddle saying, "From woman came the worst of things" referring to Eve's Fall in the Garden of Eden. (He wished to stump her)!
Kassiani, without hesitation responded to him with her reply, "Yet from Woman came the Best of Things", the New Eve, Theotokos Mary, giving birth to Christ.
With such a response the emperor was taken aback, wholly intimidated by Kassiani's answer and with distaste, handed the Golden Apple to another suitor who became his wife.
He fully regretted his decision later.
Taking this example of St. Kassiani, it is always profitable for us to take refuge in Christ and the Mother He designed and gave to us, for from it comes great reward.
May the Platytera - "the one more spacious than the Heavens" spread her Mantle over us! Amen.
Incredible quote by Saint Dionysios!
Dearest Fr. Gabriel,
I love the title of this article. Truly an awesome mystery is hidden within the Theotokos.
It makes me to think of a certain moment in Orthodox history, although unique in its chronology: when a famous emperor held a bride show to pick a wife.
A notable virgin named Kassiani was there. He saw this woman's bravery and virtue and with boldness came over to her and challenged her with a riddle saying, "From woman came the worst of things" referring to Eve's Fall in the Garden of Eden. (He wished to stump her)!
Kassiani, without hesitation responded to him with her reply, "Yet from Woman came the Best of Things", the New Eve, Theotokos Mary, giving birth to Christ.
With such a response the emperor was taken aback, wholly intimidated by Kassiani's answer and with distaste, handed the Golden Apple to another suitor who became his wife.
He fully regretted his decision later.
Taking this example of St. Kassiani, it is always profitable for us to take refuge in Christ and the Mother He designed and gave to us, for from it comes great reward.
May the Platytera - "the one more spacious than the Heavens" spread her Mantle over us! Amen.
Ivanka • XC