Poetics of the Gospel Word in the “Testament of the Father to the Son” by Ivan Pososhkov

The article offers an analysis of one of the most significant monuments of the Peter the Great era — the didactic “Testament of the father to the Son” by I. T. Pososhkov, known for his active work and his impressive written legacy. The spiritual instruction created by Ivan Pososhkov is noteworthy not only for “turning to the future” (at the time of the creation of the “Testament,” Pososhkov’s son was only seven years old), but also for the deeply personal nature of direct communication with the addressee of the instruction, in which the blood father seemed to play the role of a spiritual father. The use of the Gospel word by I. Pososhkov is examined through direct and inaccurate quoting, paraphrase of fragments of Holy Scripture, contamination of various readings, and relevant commentary. In contrast to the liturgical tradition of reproducing biblical quotations “by ear,” characteristic of monastic book tradition, Ivan Pososhkov demonstrates his extensive reading experience and encyclopedic knowledge in his work, consistent with his time and social position. The use of the Gospel word allows the author of the “Testament” to refer to a thought that is important for him several times, illustrating and supporting it with quotes or storylines from the scripture. Pososhkov is well-read, but not bookish, and the Gospel is not perceived as a “rule”: it becomes a word of revelation and love. The very treatment of the Gospel text was Pososhkov’s expression of freedom and creativity.