Wisdom in Maximus the Confessor Reconsidered

Abstract

The article aims to elucidate the role and the function of wisdom in the work of Maximus the Confessor. This polyvalent term occurs frequently in Maximus’ works and it links various fields of his thought, i.e. aretology, cosmology, epistemology, and eschatology, in a single theological vision. Maximus employs the notion of wisdom in his explanation of several interdependent processes such as the practice of virtues and the natural contemplation that lead to salvation as the appropriation of wisdom in its fullness. Moreover, Maximus connects these two practices with the divine activities of providence and judgment on the one hand, and the function of human cognitive faculties of mind and reason on the other hand. The divine revelation of wisdom and the corresponding human appropriation of wisdom taken together are reflected in the unity of God and man, in which man fully realizes the image of God.