Customer Reviews

The Spiritual Guide (Library of Spiritual Classics)

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This translation cuts out most of the meat of the original work (entire paragraphs, and, oddly enough, all the references to scripture), and tries too hard to put what's left of it in terms that modern born-again Christians will be happier with. There are some older translations available on the net, and in places comparing this to them looks like there are two completely different books.

In today's society we live according to our five senses. Our emotions control our lives. We constantly need to be stimulated by the pleasures of the world. In this book Michael Molinos talks of our need of death to the flesh, to be identified with our Lord Jesus Christ and His death and resurrection on the cross. Molinos points out how we must understand that everything which happens in our life is used by God to produce a deeper relationship and growth spiritually! Lest you write this author off as another theological scholar writing only with head knowledge gained in a university, you must know that you are gravely mistaken! This man who lived in the seventeeth century gave his life and was sealed in a dungeon for his beliefs. This truly is a man who lived what he preached, not by any strength of his own but by Christ Jesus who was his strength, victory and joy. He points out that the valley is the same as the hilltop. If we desire the gifts of Christ Jesus we must also desire the pain because of what it produces! Death to our flesh will be painful!

Molinos (lived in 1600's) speaks from experience as he describes for us manners and ways to achieve the joy and rest Christ promised those who love and obey Him. He describes a deeply inward journy into the depths of Christ. These instructions are rich and practical. He also warns of the tendancy toward outward seeking which can't bring Life and how pride can rise up at any time, even when we stand in the presence of our Lord.
I love this book and keep it always by my study chair. It is a candidate for book clubs that enjoy inspiritional works on the deeper life of abiding in Chrst.

This book is filled with practical wisdom on how to realize your full potential. Molinos grasps well the fact that we were created to know God and commune with Him. He simply and beautifully leads the hearts of believers into deep and quiet worship. This book is a classic and a great benefit to every serious believer.

This book was published in 1675 by Christian mystic Michael Molinos. Although it was originally endorsed by the Catholic church, being translated into every language in Western Europe, it was eventually banned in 1687, and anyone found in possession of it was excommunicated. Michael Molinos straight-forward style is very appealing to today's Christian's who yearn to walk in the ancient paths.

Michael Molinos is credited with being one of the chief contributors to the doctrine of Quietism. The following quote is taken from The Catholic Encyclopedia Online article defining Quietism, by E.A. PACE:

"Quietism (Lat. quies, quietus, passivity) in the broadest sense is the doctrine which declares that man's highest perfection consists in a sort of psychical self-annihilation and a consequent absorption of the soul into the Divine Essence even during the present life. In the state of "quietude" the mind is wholly inactive; it no longer thinks or wills on its own account, but remains passive while God acts within it. "

Those considering the purchase of this book are encouraged to read the entire article. While the Quietist practices (or nonpractices) of utter silence and passivity may be objectionable to some, the ardent desire for God, the earnest turning away from things of lesser value to fully seek him, and the joys of finding him as described in this book should provide encouragement for those that aspire to experience the greater depths of their Lord. However, despite it's desirable points I would not recommend this book as an introduction to the inner life. I would recommend instead Practicing His Presence, published by SeedSowers.

It is refreshing to see how "The Spirit" can work any time, in any century as he wills to do. Molinos comes across as most humble and unassuming, not caring where his work and ideas go, he leaves this to "The Spirit".
The Church today is a little more open to his ideas but wide open.
Rita Leitch

I find the writings of Michael Molinos to be very encouraging for reaching a depth in Christ by the seeking heart.