St. Isaac the Syrian – Translation
The foundation of all good things, the liberation of the soul from the captivity of the enemy, and the path that leads to light and life consist of these two things: to settle permanently in one place and to fast always; that is, to wisely and prudently discipline oneself in temperance regarding food, and to dwell in a quiet place with unceasing diligence and meditation upon God. Whoever keeps these two will make great progress and, from this, will attain all the virtues.
A cowardly person means that he suffers from two ailments: lack of faith and attachment to his body. Whoever despises these is clearly one who believes wholeheartedly in God and awaits the things to come (eternal life).
The boldness of the heart and the contempt for dangers arise from one of two causes: either from hardness of heart or from great faith in God. Hardness of heart is accompanied by pride, while faith is accompanied by humility of heart.
St. Isaac the Syrian – Translation
