Gifted Origins of Graced Fulfillment: The Soteriology of Julian of Norwich (Theology) [Paperback]

Kerrie Hide (Author)

Book Description

Series: Theology | Publication Date: September 2001

Does life have meaning? Is love at the core of all reality? In Gifted Origins to Graced Fulfillment, Kerrie Hide searches for responses to these questions. Hide examines the soteriology presented in the Revelations of Divine Love, composed by Julian of Norwich. She analyzes the understanding of salvation expressed in the visions, or showings of Julian and expands previous theological inquiry into Julian's texts. After demonstrating how Julian's theology is a trinitarian theology of love, Hide addresses each aspect of Julian's soteriology within the framework of her trinitarian formula. The theological précis reveals that, for Julian, salvation is a process of oneing in a mystical, three-part journey from our origins with God to our ultimate return to God. Hide's analysis provides a hermeneutic for examining mystical literature theologically and demonstrates the important contribution mystical theology makes to the broader field of theology. She contributes a systematic study of Julian's understanding of salvation not undertaken previously. In Part One, Hide examines Julian's visionary experience and her expression of the experience that led others to reflect on, record, and write about her texts. She also presents a hermeneutic for interpreting Julian's showings. Part Two presents Julian's soteriology as a trinitarian soteriology of oneing and explores how our life is in three stages. In Part Three, Hide delves into our gifted origins. She surveys Julian's creation theology and her anthropology. Part Four focuses on Christology. This section presents Christ's role in redemption through the cross, through his work as servant, and through his function as mother. Part Five inquires into graced endings. The chapters examine the present experience of graced fulfillment in the power of the Holy Spirit and the hope for fulfillment in the eschaton. Finally, in Part Six, Hide draws together Julian's understanding of salvation. She appraises the relevance of these teachings for today. Chapters are "Julian of Norwich," "A Hermeneutic for Interpreting the Showings," "Oneing Through the Trinity," "Oneing in Being," "Oneing Through the Crucifixion," "Oneing Through the Servant," "Oneing Through Christ, Deep Wisdom and Mother," "Oneing Through the Holy Spirit," "Oneing in the Eschaton," and "Julian's Spiritual Understanding."

Editorial Reviews

Review

"... a compelling read for anyone interested in spiritual life, prayer, human hope, or new ways of thinking about God." -- Graeme Garrett, Charles Sturt University, Australia

"Keen historical awareness and a broad theological vision join with deep spirituality to make this a delightful book." -- Tony Kelly, C.Ss.R., Australian Catholic University

"Kerrie Hide's book helps us to understand the depth and coherence of Julian's theological reflection." -- Father Michael Casey, O.S.C.O., Tarrawarra Abbey, Australia

Product Details

• Paperback: 233 pages
• Publisher: Michael Glazier Books (September 2001)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0814650937
• ISBN-13: 978-0814650936
• Product Dimensions: 9 x 6 x 0.6 inches
• Shipping Weight: 14.7 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,231,336 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

More About the Author

Discover books, learn about writers, read author blogs, and more.