Theosis is obtained by engaging in contemplative prayer resulting from the cultivation of watchfulness (Gk: nepsis). This doesn't mean that human, created energy obtains theosis by itself, ie. without God. Holy Spirit is a doer of theosis, because He gives Christ's grace and Father's love to the purifying ones. According to the standard ascetic formulation of this process, there are three stages: Katharsis () or purification, Theoria () or illumination, and Theosis () or deification (also referred to as union with God).
Theosis is obtained by engaging in contemplative prayer resulting from the cultivation of watchfulness (Gk: nepsis). This doesn't mean that human, created energy obtains theosis by itself, ie. without God Holy Spirit is a doer of theosis, because He gives Christ's grace and Father's love to the purifying ones. According to the standard ascetic formulation of this process, there are three stages: Katharsis () or purification, Theoria () or illumination, and Theosis () or deification (also referred to as union with God).