Integrating Divine Image and Rational Insight
In the context of the presented materials, one can see that the concepts of "Godly Man" and "Rational Man" do not contradict one another, but rather, complement each other as a whole. On one hand, "Godly Man" implies the possibility inherent in humans as a reflection of the divine image; however, this potential is actualized only through moral self-improvement and a conscious choice of virtues. For example, one excerpt notes: "However, the qualities granted to man do not necessarily make him akin to God: 'Man is God, and man is nothing,' muses St. John of Kronstadt... It turns out that, depending on his own discretion and efforts, a man may fail to reveal the traits of the divine image within himself. A man either becomes like God by perfecting himself through goodness or does not reveal the divine image at all." (source: link txt, page: 71)On the other hand, the concept of "Rational Man" emphasizes the ability of humans not only to use their intellect to control nature and the world around them but also the inherent capacity for self-reflection and inner transformation. As one text states: "Man, as a rational being, rather controls nature than is controlled by it." (source: link txt, page: 317)Special attention is given to the inner transformation of the personality, which occurs when a man fully devotes his heart to chosen spiritual ideals, thereby attaining not only wisdom but also true rationality. This is expressed in the following lines: "He who, like a monk, gives his heart to Christ becomes a different person. His mind is opened; it is filled by Christ. ... And when his mind and heart are full of Christ, then this man becomes wise (sophos) and rational (exipnos)." (source: link txt, page: 1035) and "The rational man (exipnos) has already surrendered his heart to Christ, and does not suffer, whatever difficulties come his way. He rejoices, he is filled with inner joy. He is energetic but cautious..." (source: link txt, page: 1036)Thus, the modern understanding of spirituality and reason in the presented sources implies that the true rationality of man is not limited solely to intellectual capabilities or control over his environment. True perfection of the personality, which makes one "Godly" in the divine image, lies in the conscious choice of virtue and deep inner transformation. In this light, "Rational Man" is one whose intellectual abilities and rational control over nature are harmoniously complemented by spiritual development, leading to the unveiling of the divine image within man.Supporting citation(s):"However, the qualities granted to man do not necessarily make him akin to God: 'Man is God, and man is nothing,' muses St. John of Kronstadt... It turns out that, depending on his own discretion and efforts, a man may fail to reveal the traits of the divine image within himself. A man either becomes like God by perfecting himself through goodness or does not reveal the divine image at all." (source: link txt, page: 71)"Man, as a rational being, rather controls nature than is controlled by it." (source: link txt, page: 317)"He who, like a monk, gives his heart to Christ becomes a different person. His mind is opened; it is filled by Christ. ... And when his mind and heart are full of Christ, then this man becomes wise (sophos) and rational (exipnos)." (source: link txt, page: 1035)"The rational man (exipnos) has already surrendered his heart to Christ, and does not suffer, whatever difficulties come his way. He rejoices, he is filled with inner joy. He is energetic but cautious..." (source: link txt, page: 1036)