This title introduces readers to one of the most influential pieces of Christian mysticism.
Interior Castle
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About the Author
Teresa of Avila (1515 - 1582) was a contemplative nun, religious former, monastic founder, spiritual writer and gifted poet. She is also one of the great Christian mystics of all time. She was canonised in 1622 and declared a doctor of the church in 1970.
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63 of 63 people found the following review helpful
Format:Paperback
I have, more than once, picked up Interior Castle, but each time my innate preference for logical progression and precise explanations got in the way. With Dennis Billy as a guide, I am now able to appreciate Teresa's spiritual counsel even though I still find some of the metaphors confusing.
Though the commentary is short when compared to Teresa's texts, it is invaluable. In the introduction Billy gives an overview of Teresa's background, call to write, and spiritual doctrine presented through a description of seven mansions within a spiritual castle. He also offers 10 pointers for interpreting Interior Castle, including details of its development, Teresa's view of religious life "in the hierarchical order of sanctity," her combative posture toward the world, and her primary image of God as beloved spouse.
He previews her nine sections--one for the introduction, each of the seven mansions, and the epilogue--and before each chapter within the sections he offers a short summary that prepares us for Teresa's words. Finally, Billy has added four reflection questions at the end of each chapter to help us further examine Teresa's teachings and our own spiritual lives.
Though the commentary is short when compared to Teresa's texts, it is invaluable. In the introduction Billy gives an overview of Teresa's background, call to write, and spiritual doctrine presented through a description of seven mansions within a spiritual castle. He also offers 10 pointers for interpreting Interior Castle, including details of its development, Teresa's view of religious life "in the hierarchical order of sanctity," her combative posture toward the world, and her primary image of God as beloved spouse.
He previews her nine sections--one for the introduction, each of the seven mansions, and the epilogue--and before each chapter within the sections he offers a short summary that prepares us for Teresa's words. Finally, Billy has added four reflection questions at the end of each chapter to help us further examine Teresa's teachings and our own spiritual lives.
37 of 37 people found the following review helpful
By Anne Gomes
Format:Paperback
Fr Billy's introduction, chapter notes and questions are a fantastic, useful guide to this spiritual classic. I've read and reread St Teresa for years in English and Spanish and this book has the best commentary I have ever seen. His notes make this classic accessible for people called to the prayer journey but who lack background in 16th century Spanish society and mysticism. I've already recommended it to 2 friends who are also pleased with the book.
17 of 17 people found the following review helpful
By J. Ashton
Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase
Teresa of Avila was a real person, not just a beautiful sculpture! My realization of this was made sure by this fine commentary on her Interior Castle work by Dennis Billy. Her conversion to Christ and her subsequent desire to know Him, her obedience to her superiors in writing her thoughts, and her delightful humanity in the journey, are a worthwhile study for any Christian, Protestant or Catholic. (The E. Allison Peer's English translation from the Spanish is considered the standard version, and is accurate, unlike the New Age-spin translation of Mirabelle Starr.)
For any believer, this is a terrific guide to the details of spiritual growth, not in the sense of becoming adept at hearing special messages from God, but in the sense of gaining true humility, gaining the joy of sacrifice, and gaining a transcendent love for Jesus. How wonderful that this was written in the 1500s; like the Bible, it speaks to us in our own century. That Teresa was a very busy woman gives a special touch of realism to her words; her reforms in the Carmelite order took her on journeys far less comfortable than the business traveler of today, and with worries as complex and political as has any modern businessman. It is a great privilege to have these writings; they are (gasp!) much more worthwhile than a great many modern diversions: television, movies, and most sermons.
For any believer, this is a terrific guide to the details of spiritual growth, not in the sense of becoming adept at hearing special messages from God, but in the sense of gaining true humility, gaining the joy of sacrifice, and gaining a transcendent love for Jesus. How wonderful that this was written in the 1500s; like the Bible, it speaks to us in our own century. That Teresa was a very busy woman gives a special touch of realism to her words; her reforms in the Carmelite order took her on journeys far less comfortable than the business traveler of today, and with worries as complex and political as has any modern businessman. It is a great privilege to have these writings; they are (gasp!) much more worthwhile than a great many modern diversions: television, movies, and most sermons.
Most Recent Customer Reviews
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very Good
The commentary helps alot! Although there seems to be a LOT of it! haha! I am really enjoying the book so far! Got here around 3 days before it was supposed to!! Read more
Published 2 months ago by Maegan
5.0 out of 5 stars
Easy to read
I enjoy this book. I am a fan of St Teresa of Avila. Great commentary. The origonal is too difficult to follow at times
Published 5 months ago by CPE student
5.0 out of 5 stars
This commentary helped me the most!
When I was young, I used to play the game Dungeons and Dragons. I had a hard time finding my way around in the game. Read more
Published 13 months ago by Carl
5.0 out of 5 stars
best copy yet
this is my 4th time reading Interior Castles. This is the best translation. The commentary is quite valuable in summarizing and the introduction is especially helpful to first time... Read more
Published 23 months ago by mojo
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent book!
I would recommend this book to anyone wanting to enhance their knowledge and prayer life -- very well written!
Published on February 14, 2010 by J. S. Fox
