Refutation of Maximus Planudes

This medieval work explores the theological debate surrounding the procession of the Holy Spirit within the Christian Trinity. Maximus Planudes argues against the notion that the Holy Spirit proceeds from both the Father and the Son, reasoning that such a dual procession would imply a double Spirit, which is illogical. Demetrius Cydonius criticizes Planudes for his weak arguments and suggests his motives might be fear-driven. Bessarion responds by explaining that the procession is one and the same, as the Father and Son are one in substance, producing the Spirit through a single divine operation. Peter Argyropoulos supports this view, referencing Augustine to emphasize the unity of the Holy Spirit as proceeding from both the Father and the Son, reflecting the unity of the Church.