The Great Canon Á-? On Thursday of the Fifth Week of Lent - Page 22 of 59
5.
Therefore I am condemned, wretch that I am, therefore I
am doomed by my own conscience, than which there is
nothing in the world more rigorous. O my Judge and
Redeemer Who knowest my heart, spare and deliver and
save me, Thy servant.
6.
The ladder of old which the great Patriarch saw, my soul, is
a model of mounting by action and ascent by knowledge. So,
if you wish to live in activity, knowledge and contemplation,
be renewed.
(Genesis 28:12; Romans 12:2; Titus 3:5)
7.
Because of his crying need the Patriarch endured the
scorching heat of the day, and he bore the frost of the night,
daily making gains, shepherding, struggling, slaving, in order
to win two wives.
(Genesis 29:16-30; 31-40)
8.
By the two wives understand action and direct knowledge
in contemplation: Leah as action, for she had many children,
and Rachel as knowledge, which is obtained by much labor.
For without labors, my soul, neither action nor contemplation
will achieve success.
9.
Watch, my soul! Be courageous like the great Patriarchs,
that you may acquire activity and awareness, and be a mind
that sees God, and may reach in contemplation the
innermost darkness, and be a great trader.
(Genesis 32:28; Luke 19:13. -15)
10.
The great Patriarch, by begetting the twelve Patriarchs,
mystically set up for you, my soul, a ladder of active ascent,
having wisely offered his children as rungs, and his steps as
ascents.
11.
You have emulated the hated Esau, my soul, and have
given up your birthright of pristine beauty to your supplanter,
and you have lost your father's blessing, and have been
tripped up twice in action and knowledge. Therefore, O
wretch, repent now
. ( Genesis 25:31; 27:37)