
The Oxford Handbook of Mystical Theology provides a guide to the mystical element of Christianity as a theological phenomenon. It differs not only from psychological and anthropological studies of mysticism, but from other theological studies, such as more practical or pastorally-oriented works that examine the patterns of spiritual progress and offer counsel for deeper understanding and spiritual development. It also differs from more explicitly historical studies tracing the theological and philosophical contexts and ideas of various key figures and schools, as well as from literary studies of the linguistic tropes and expressive forms in mystical texts. None of these perspectives is absent, but the method here is more deliberately theological, working from within the fundamental interests of Christian mystical writers to the articulation of those interests in distinctively theological forms, in order, finally, to permit a critical theological engagement with them for today. Divided into four parts, the first section introduces the approach to mystical theology and offers a historical overview. Part two attends to the concrete context of sources and practices of mystical theology. Part three moves to the fundamental conceptualities of mystical thought. The final section ends with the central contributions of mystical teaching to theology and metaphysics. Students and scholars with a variety of interests will find different pathways through the Handbook.
This volume investigates the distinct theological dimensions of Christian mysticism, positioning it as a rigorous academic discipline rather than merely a psychological or historical subject. Editors Edward Howells and Mark A. McIntosh assemble a collection of scholarly contributions that analyze the fundamental interests of mystical writers. The work establishes a framework for critical theological engagement, moving beyond descriptive history to articulate the metaphysical and conceptual contributions of mystical thought to contemporary theology.
What You Will Find
Scope Limits
Scholars and students of theology frequently identify this handbook as a comprehensive reference for understanding the intellectual rigor of Christian mysticism. Experts note the academic density of the prose, which serves as a foundational resource for those seeking to bridge historical mystical texts with modern theological inquiry.
Page Count:
718
Publication Date:
2020-01-01
Publisher:
OUP Oxford
ISBN-10:
019103407X
ISBN-13:
9780191034077
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