Main idea: His Holiness Pope Shenouda III addresses the verse in which the Lord asks: “What does a man profit if he gains the whole world and loses his soul?” and explains the meaning of the word “soul” and the dangers of the distorted self-love that leads to spiritual ruin.

Meanings of the soul and its gifts
He clarifies that the word “soul” in the Holy Scripture takes multiple meanings — the element of life, the spirit, or the whole person — and that the soul is filled with gifts (mind, conscience, feelings, will) which God granted to be His image in us.

The danger: distorted self-love
He warns that love of self in the wrong form (seeking fame, pleasures, comfort) leads to losing the soul despite gaining everything in the world. He cites biblical examples (Adam, Solomon, the monk, the prodigal’s counterpart) to show how neglecting the soul destroys it.

The way to salvation: self-denial and disciplining the soul
He calls for self-denial and taking up the cross, controlling the senses and spiritual training (fasting, controlling the gaze, controlling thoughts), and affirms that whoever hates his soul for Christ’s sake finds it truly. Self-discipline, self-reproach, and continuous repentance are tools for salvation.

Examples of the holy fathers
He cites examples (Moses, Joseph, Paul, the desert fathers) who preferred humiliation or sacrifice over temporal enjoyment in order to preserve their souls in the image of God.

Responsibility of every believer
He emphasizes self-watchfulness first so that a person may be able to save others; he who has not saved himself cannot save others. He mentions the greater danger: the devil who lost his soul and led many with him.

Practical call
He concludes with a practical call: watch your soul, govern it, restrain it from passions, punish it by self-restraint if necessary, and ask God for forgiveness and purity so that the soul returns to its original divine image.

For better translation support, please contact the center.

🏷 خلاص النفس