Hildegard of Bingen's Unknown Language
Book Description
In the twelfth century, a remarkable German nun named Hildegard of Bingen created something extraordinary: an entirely new language containing over a thousand invented words designed to praise the Church and express her mystical understanding of the world around her. This fascinating scholarly exploration reveals how Hildegard's "Unknown Language," known as the Lingua Ignota, represents far more than mere religious devotion or mysterious code.
Sarah L. Higley guides readers through this linguistic marvel, demonstrating how Hildegard's invented vocabulary breathes fresh life into spiritual expression. Drawing connections between the nun's visionary experiences, her musical compositions, and medieval approaches to language, this study illuminates how creative word-making can transform our relationship with the sacred.
Rather than viewing Hildegard's language through narrow interpretations as glossolalia or secret communication, Higley positions this medieval innovation within the broader human tradition of imaginary language creation that continues into contemporary times. The book includes both the original text and English translations, making this mystical vocabulary accessible to modern readers.
For those interested in the intersection of spirituality, creativity, and linguistic innovation, this work offers insight into how one visionary woman participated in an intellectual tradition spanning centuries. Hildegard's bold experiment in sacred expression demonstrates the power of language to renew our connection with the divine and transform our understanding of spiritual communication.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~7 hours)
📄 Length: 264 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore mystical experiences
- ✓ Explore English language
- ✓ Explore Glossaries, vocabularies
- ✓ Explore Glossaries
- ✓ Explore FOREIGN LANGUAGE STUDY
- ✓ Explore Dictionaries
- ✓ Deepen your spiritual understanding
- ✓ Explore Latin language
