Customer Reviews

Francisco De Osuna: Third Spiritual Alphabet (Classics of Western Spirituality)

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An early 16th Century Spanish mystic, Fr. Francisco de Osunacontributed six spiritual alphabet's for humankind's spiritualgrowth. The Third Spiritual Alphabet being not only a treatise on love and how to enjoy a recollected life in the midst of the chaos of this world; but as well, the very book that that strong cookie, St. Teresa of Avila, chose to use as her "bible" throughout her intensely productive and deeply committed life. One look at the cover of this paperback with Liam Roberts' excellent painting of this very beautiful priest gives one a clear sense of his own personal struggles and the satisfaction he must have felt in overcoming them. END

Of the many aspects of mystical theology Osuna addresses, I particularly like his description of an "inflaming of the spirit." He writes of experiencing "... such sweetness that the soul would like to be consumed... it is exceedingly gladdened in the Lord, [and] its tranquil conscience witness to our feeling of being loved by God..." (p. 71) If you are drawn to such a state, you're likely to appreciate Third Spiritual Alphabet, a gem of 16th century Spanish mysticism with expert introduction by translator, Mary E. Giles.

Do you want a deeper walk with Christ? This is a book worth reading.

St Teresa of Avila considered de Osuna's book The Third Spiritual Alphabet to be a turning-point in her life as a Christian. Mary Giles has made a translation of this 500-year-old work which reveals de Osuna as a kindly, humorous, and utterly serious man of God, much as CS Lewis is for the modern man. Yet the search for a deep relationship with God is the same for the Renaissance man as for the man of the 21st century. This is a book to be savoured, read slowly, underlined, re-read, and cherished. To understand the advice here is not difficult, it is simply difficult to choose to do it. After all, we have much more accessible ways of filling our minds in our century: the television, the radio, movies, the Internet. Perhaps even some of our church services contain more easy entertainment than substance.

De Osuna is a writer who connects things, who relates the known to the unknown by metaphor and simile and nature, with surprising ideas that one feels interiorly, as truths one has always known but never articulated. He is Biblical to the core, and seems to have a photographic memory of scripture, with one glaring error simply showing that he was writing without references! The things he pulls from scripture for our understanding are nothing short of delightful. All scripture references are footnoted by the translator, which is very helpful.

De Osuna requires of the reader total attention and dedication. Yet the task is as exhilarating as any scenic mountain climb. I thank Ms Giles for for her thoughtful and readable work, and I thank whatever powers that be for publishing this book. It is a timeless work.

This has got to be one of the top 5 books I have ever read. This is a most for anyone looking to deepen their faith and grow closer to God. I consider it a must read, next to The Bible and The Poem Of The Man-God.

the book challenges not only to know the principles of contemplative prayer, but leads you to actually learn how to prayer more simply and desire a purer union with God in Christ.

Francisco De Osuna: Third Spiritual Alphabet (Classics of Western Spirituality)
A Spiritual Classic. Read many times by "St. Teresa de Jesus" (St. Teresa Of Avila). She used the book for guidance on her journey toward God. A very enlightening book. A book For those truly seeking a spiritual way toward God. Highly recommended.

The book arrived in a very timely manner. It was in superb shape - a paperback in 'new' condition. It has one of the longest introductions, and most thorough, I have ever seen. Francisco De Osuna has written a marvelous tome. I can see why St. Teresa of Avila values it so much.

This is called a Spiritual Alphabet. The title says exactly what it is: an ABC guide to spirituality - with a Franciscan touch! It is great to read the person who has influenced St Teresa of Avila

I never thought I would find Osuna's Third Alphabet! and here it is. Translated by Mary E. Giles and with a superb Introduction. She certainly has studied and is familiar with l6th century literature and has a wonderful knowledge of Spain and the times. Thank you for writing such a great book. Her students are very lucky to have been and have her as a teacher.

Mariacristina Von Feldt

I recommend this book to anyone that wants to further his/her
spiritual quest.

I hope that you find this a gem.