Foundations of Mysticism

Now available in paperback, this is the first volume of the highly-praised landmark trilogy The Presence of God: A History of Western Christian Mysticism. "A book to be treasured".--Spiritual Life.
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This is the first of four volumes dedicated to the hist- ory and theology of Western Christian mysticism. This book is a must for every student of spirituality and every spirit ual director. This is the best available account of the symbolical crucible from which Christian mysticism sprang. An important book that will profit even those suspicious of mysticism. This is a fantastic reference book for those seriously interested in Christian mysticism.
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In this first volume of the highly-acclaimed Presence of God series, Bernard McGinn explores the origins of Christian mysticism, from early Jewish apocalyptic writings to pre-Christian Greek contemplative thought; the New Testament witnesses; early Greek Patristic thought; and the contribution of early monastic practice. In Part 2, McGinn discusses Western Christian mysticism proper, with special attention to Augustine of Hippo. Of special interest is the now-influential appendix, which reviews various theoretical approaches to mysticism.
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