Introduction
Understanding Christian mystic
Christian mystic seeks a living knowledge of God through Christ. It generally maintains a distinction between Creator and creature, even when it uses the bold language of union, deification or spiritual marriage.
The first monks of the desert developed silence, vigilance and continuous prayer.
To be retained
Four essential principles
- Christian mysticalism seeks a living knowledge of God through Christ.
- The first monks of the desert developed silence, vigilance and continuous prayer.
- Purgative, illuminative and one-sided routes describe a frequent route, without constituting a universal rule.
- christian mystic seeks a transformation of the whole person through the love of God and neighbor.
Small timeline
A tradition shaped by history
Origins and training
The first monks of the desert developed silence, vigilance and continuous prayer.
Historical developments
Eastern theology speaks of *theosis*, participation in divine life.
Ritual life and teachings
Purgative, illuminative and one-sided routes describe a frequent route, without constituting a universal rule.
A living and plural tradition
In the West, monasticism, rhenish mysticism, beguines, Carmelites and modern currents have produced various forms.
History and development
The first monks of the desert developed silence, vigilance and continuous prayer. Eastern theology speaks of *theosis*, participation in divine life.
In the West, monasticism, rhenish mysticism, beguines, Carmelites and modern currents have produced various forms. Some mystics, especially women, have gained a public voice while being monitored by the authorities.
Worldview, beliefs and practices
The purgative, illuminating and unitive ways describe a frequent itinerary, without constituting a universal rule. Lectio divina, prayer of the heart, silent contemplation, fasting, sacraments and service of the poor direct existence.
The "dark night" in John of the Cross is a spiritual purification and should not be automatically identified with a clinical depression.
Texts, symbols and transmission
Bible, Rule of St Benedict, Cloud of Inknowledge, Inside Castle, Dark Night, vision stories and newspapers. Symbols: heart, inner room, ladder, desert, fire, water and cloud.
What research can and cannot say
Visions can be studied according to their neurological, psychological and social contexts, without exhausting their religious significance. Discerning a spiritual experience never forbids medical care.
References