Light Invisible: Satisfying the Thirst for Happiness

Arguing that human beings yearn to be rooted in something greater than themselves and to know enduring joy and peace whatever the circumstances, this classic early-20th-century text examines higher consciousness and the divine mysticism of Eastern Christianity. Written by a Russian philosopher and theologian, this book explores the differences between Christian philosophy and other systems and discusses the beliefs of sainted men and women, such as Francis of Assisi, Seraphim of Sarov, and Simeon the New Theologian. Musing upon martyrdom in the epoch of the first two Ecumenical Councils, this book also contains ruminations on the writings of Leo Tolstoy as well as a conversation between him and the author. AUTHOR: Mitrofan Vasilevich Lodyzhenskii (1852-1917) was a leading civil servant in Imperial Russia in the latter half of the 19th century. Rising to the rank of vice-governor in several regions, he was awarded several Imperial orders for his service. After retirement, Lodyzhenskii turned his attention to literary work, focusing on the relationship of esoteric philosophy with Christianity. Having spent time in both India and Japan, Lodyzhenskii’s interests touched on Hindu philosophy, yoga, Theosophy, hypnotism, and science. He was in contact with Tolstoy, A. L. Volynskii, and the occultist P. D. Uspenskii. His book Light Invisible is a witness to his return to Orthodox faith and life.