Virtue – Part 1
In this lecture His Holiness Pope Shenouda III defines virtue in its various aspects: goodness, purity, obedience, and a psychic strength that allows a person to live a righteous life and rise above personal concerns and sensory pleasures. Virtue is read as an elevation of the self toward love and service to God and people.
Sources of virtue
Wisdom and knowledge are mentioned as fundamental sources of virtue: he who understands good walks in it. Alongside knowledge there is strength of will and principles and values that keep a person from slipping into sin. Also the fear of God is considered the beginning of the path in which love grows. Divine grace is an assisting factor but it needs the partnership and effort of the person.
Virtue and spiritual struggle
Virtues are divided into those one is born with and those acquired through struggle. Even those granted a good nature need struggle to grow virtue and secure it against the devil’s resistance. The way to spiritual perfection is narrow and requires perseverance.
Inner and outer in virtue
Internal virtue in the heart is not enough unless it is translated into external expression by deeds: faith without works is dead. Virtue appears by external fruits (love, service, respect, correct upbringing) that reflect the inner life and distinguish the tree by its fruit.
Layers and degrees of virtue
Virtue has levels: the senses, the mind, the heart, the action — and each level affects the other. Continuous practice makes it easy, and it is possible gradually; progression, training and consistency are the way of spiritual growth.
Forms of virtue: negative and positive
There are negative virtues (such as not desiring evil for anyone) and positive virtues (like active love and service). True perfection combines both directions: not harming and the ability to give and act for good.
Unity and integration among virtues
Virtues are not isolated; inner love leads to loving words and deeds, and wisdom guides mercy and care with practical principles. A true shepherd needs love, wisdom and practical implementation to protect the flock.
Spiritual summary
Virtue in the Coptic Orthodox view needs knowledge and wisdom, a strong will, firm principles, and divine graces working in partnership with the human, and shows itself in loving deeds and service. Virtue is a gradual journey requiring struggle, practice and external expression so that it bears the fruit of a holy life.
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