Mystical languages of unsaying
Book Description
In the realm of mystical experience, some truths resist ordinary language entirely. Michael Anthony Sells explores this profound challenge through apophasis, an ancient spiritual discourse that literally means "speaking away." Rather than describing the divine through affirmative statements, this mystical language continually undoes its own words, embracing the impossibility of naming what cannot be named.
This scholarly yet accessible work examines how mystics across traditions have navigated the paradox of expressing the inexpressible. Sells guides readers through the writings of pivotal figures including Plotinus, John the Scot Eriugena, Ibn Arabi, Marguerite Porete, and Meister Eckhart, revealing surprising commonalities despite their vastly different cultural and religious contexts. He also draws connections to Jewish mystical writers like Abraham Abulafia and Moses de Leon.
Through careful analysis, Sells demonstrates that apophatic language operates according to its own logic and conventions, turning back upon itself in ways that initially appear contradictory but serve a deeper spiritual purpose. He challenges both medieval scholars and contemporary critics who have dismissed the more radical claims of these mystics as mere hyperbole or dangerous theology.
For readers drawn to contemplative spirituality and the mysteries of religious experience, this work illuminates a rich but often misunderstood tradition of mystical discourse that continues to resonate with seekers today.
Who Is This For?
📖 Reading Level: Medium (200-400 pages) (~9 hours)
📄 Length: 316 pages
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Middle Ages
- ✓ Explore mystical experiences
- ✓ Explore Aspect religieux
- ✓ Explore Histoire
- ✓ Explore Religious aspects
- ✓ Explore Negatieve theologie
- ✓ Explore 17.86 literary genres, theory of genre
- ✓ Explore Geschichte 600-1500
