Beholding the Luminous Nous: Trinitarian and Demonic Light-Visions in Evagrius of Pontus' Prayer Trilogy

Abstract

This thesis argues that Evagrius’ light-mysticism cannot be properly understood without also taking into account his descriptions of demonic light-visions. Through a conjunctive study of Evagrius’ accounts of Trinitarian and demonic light-visions this thesis aimed to arrive a more holistic and comprehensive understanding of Evagrius’ light-mysticism. The main findings of this study are that the main difference between Trinitarian and demonic light-visions lie in their effects: Trinitarian light-visions lead to contemplation and a radical transformation of the self, while demonic light-visions lead to self-satisfaction and an erroneous attempt to localize the divine. Moreover, this thesis found that the passages on compunction and humility in On Prayer function as counter-measures against the cause and effects of delusion, thereby providing a counter-balance to Evagrius’ discussion of Trinitarian light-visions in On Thoughts and Reflections. In On Prayer, Evagrius brings his light-mysticism more “down to earth” through grounding it in humility.