Most Detailed Theology Of Virginity

[Bizzlebin]

I'm fairly familiar with the Patristic teachings on marriage, but was looking to enhance my understanding of the theology behind a life of virginity. Apart from (modern) books read years ago and snippets spread throughout other studies, I just got through reading a more formal treatise on the subject, which was full of Aristotelean teachings, strawmen, and rhetorical flourishes but extraordinarily devoid of any usable Orthodox explanation. I don't have the time or energy to go through more stuff like that. So, does anyone know what the best and/or most complete Orthodox sermon/treatise/etc on virginity is, by a saint, that is instructive rather than hagiographical? Thanks!

 

[Ainnir]

Like how to live a life of virginity?

 

[Bizzlebin]

Like how to live a life of virginity?

No, I'm rather looking for the theological basis for virginity, the superiority of virginity vs other forms of life, etc.

 

[hurrrah]

Naked links removed. You can post them again with a description of what is on the other side, or allowing the auto-generated preview.~Arachne

 

[recent convert]

Isn’t the basic commandment of not committing adultery call us to be virgins with the exception of bearing children within marriage? Surely we all fall short and need to confess our sins as we struggle and stumble.

 

[Irened]

Here are some writings focusing on the Theotokos and virginity. Not sure it's what you're looking for:

Asceticism and Mary: the function of Mary's virginity in the Early Fathers from Ignatius to Origen

era.ed.ac.uk

https://www.omhksea.org/archives/3631