The Profound Wisdom Hidden in Dostoevsky's Masterpiece
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Chapter 1: The Enigma of Raskolnikov
Fyodor Dostoevsky's "Crime and Punishment" is a novel that continues to resonate long after its last page is turned. For years, I have contemplated the motives behind Raskolnikov's terrible crime. Recently, during a visit to the convent where my mother dedicated her life, I noticed a nun engrossed in "Crime and Punishment."
Intrigued, I initiated a lively discussion with her. I asked her thoughts on why Raskolnikov committed his crime. To my surprise, she replied, “He murdered the usurer because he was ensnared by the Logismoi.”
Understanding Logismoi
The nun elaborated that Logismoi is a Greek term referring to the disturbing or tempting thoughts that repeatedly invade the mind. She shared passages from the book, including Raskolnikov's reflection: “That’s why I don’t do anything because I am engaged in rambling. Although it could also be the other way around: I am engaged in rambling because I do nothing.”
She pointed out another line: “The ideas were muddling around in his head.” Then she read, “At that time, he still didn’t have much faith in those dreams of him... But now, after a month, he was beginning to see things differently.”
The nun concluded, “The Logismoi in his mind grew stronger, which ultimately led Raskolnikov to kill the usurer.”
The Influence of Logismoi
According to the nun, Dostoevsky's personal struggles inspired the character of Raskolnikov. He was a gambler in debt, acutely aware of how negative thoughts can invade a troubled mind, transforming us into shadows of our former selves.
She explained that evil thoughts (Logismoi) seep into our consciousness when we surrender to despair. Raskolnikov, confined to a tiny room and burdened by debt, succumbed to the fantasy of robbing the usurer. These recurring thoughts crystallized into a deadly plan, culminating in the crime depicted in the novel.
Recognizing Logismoi
Examples of Logismoi include thoughts such as:
- "I am worthless."
- "I cannot."
- "I give up."
- "I’m unlovable."
- "There’s no hope for me."
These thoughts, if allowed to persist, can greatly influence our actions and lead us down a darker path.
How Logismoi Take Hold
The nun identified three primary triggers for Logismoi:
- Lack of faith.
- Despair.
- Loneliness.
In these states, we are particularly susceptible to the influence of Logismoi. The common thread among these triggers is the absence of joy, which attracts negative thoughts much like cheese attracts mice.
Strategies to Combat Logismoi
To counteract Logismoi, the nun offered two valuable strategies:
Embrace Logoi:
Logoi are affirming words that can heal the spirit. For instance, when faced with the thought "I am worthless," one might counter with "I am deserving of love and respect." This practice helps diminish the power of negative thoughts.
Engage with Nature:
The nun remarked that our indoor lifestyles often exacerbate evil thoughts. "When the devil has nothing to do, he kills flies with his tail," she said. Engaging with nature can restore joy, making it difficult for Logismoi to thrive.
She reassured me that nature can offer companionship. "The trees, the sun, and the flowers are company enough," she laughed.
Since that conversation, I have made it a point to take daily walks—without exception.
This insightful video titled "The Harder You Try, The Worse It Gets - The Philosophy of Fyodor Dostoevsky" explores similar themes and delves deeper into Dostoevsky's philosophies.
Sending virtual hugs,
AG
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Alberto García ??? - Medium