Głos w sprawie fenomenu ikony, czyli o funkcji ikony-obrazu w perspektywie prawosławnej doktryny o „boskich energiach”
The phenomenon of icon – a voice in the discussion about the function of icon in the perspective of the Orthodox doctrine of the divine energies

Summary/Abstract: In the article, the author highlights the relations between the eastern understanding of the functioningof the divine energies and the (Neo)Platonic perception of idea. Not only is the connection betweenthe doctrine of the divine energies and the functioning of the Orthodox icon emphasized butalso the consequences of such an association (in which every recipient contemplating the icon isopen to the energies hidden in the sacred image) are shown. Having examined the selected criticalworks concerning the understanding of the notion of “icon”, the author considers the phenomenonof icon in its energetic aspect. Thus, the need of basing not only on a (Neo)Platonic aspects or apophaticismin the process of understanding the icon is stressed. Moreover, the author postulates thecomprehension of icon in accordance with reflections included in the mystical theology of V. Lossy, which evolved from the teachings of St Gregory Palamas. The author also underscores the fundamentaldifference between the doctrine of energies and the Plotinus’ theory of emanations. Theauthor underlines the contemporary need of humans to “heal” (scelit’sja) so that discovering an iconbecomes tantamount to discovering the truth about the recipient’s own humanity.

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