Dispositions Required for Scripture Study
The fourfold preparation for fruitful Scripture study: (1) frequent reading and constancy, (2) humble modesty of mind, (3) purity of heart, (4) prayer — each supported by patristic testimony and saintly examples. From these follows a holy and sublime mind, purged of earthly dregs, fit to drink in heavenly teachings.
Preface and Praise of Sacred Scripture
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Chapter V: On the Dispositions Required for This Study
— The first preparation is frequent reading, listening, the living voice of a teacher, and constancy; memory is the storehouse of learning.
"The first preparation, then, for anyone to gather fruit from this study, is frequent reading of sacred Scripture, frequent listening, the living voice of a teacher, and constancy in these things"
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Chapter V: On the Dispositions Required for This Study
— The second disposition is humble modesty of mind; Augustine: the first, second, and third thing is humility.
"an outstanding disposition for the same is humble modesty of mind"
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Chapter V: On the Dispositions Required for This Study
— The third disposition is purity of mind: "Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."
"The companion of peace is purity of mind, which is the third disposition, most suited to this discipline"
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Chapter V: On the Dispositions Required for This Study
— The fourth is prayer as heavenly conduit for drawing meaning from God Himself.
"Fourthly, prayer is needed here, as a heavenly conduit and instrument"
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Chapter V: On the Dispositions Required for This Study
— From these follows a holy and sublime mind, purged of earthly dregs, fit to drink in heavenly teachings.
"our mind, purged of earthly dregs, and the clouds of passions dispersed, being made holy and sublime, may be rendered apt and fit to drink in these heavenly teachings"