St. Gregory Palamas

St. Gregory Palamas was a 14th-century Byzantine monk and theologian known for his defense of the Eastern Orthodox tradition, particularly the concept of the distinction between God's essence and energies. He argued that while God's essence remains inaccessible to humanity, His energies can be experienced through prayer and the sacraments. Palamas is best known for his role in the Hesychast controversy, advocating for contemplative practices that allow believers to encounter God's presence. Canonized as a saint, his teachings continue to influence Orthodox spirituality and theology today.