Customer Reviews

Wisdom of the Christian Mystics (Wisdom of the Masters)

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Timothy Freke's "The Wisdom of the Christian Mystics" is a compilation of quotes from many figures in this spiritual tradition, together with a stunning gathering of illustrations. The book is beautifully put together.

The introduction explains how the great Christian mystics "have often found themselves horribly persecuted as heretics by the established Churches." The quotes are grouped into thematic sections: "The God of the Mystics," "Communion," "The Mystic Path," "Humility," "Mystical Prayer," and "Love." A large number of mystics are quoted: Meister Eckhart, St. Catherine of Genoa, Julian of Norwich, St. Diadochus of Photiki, Maximus the Confessor, William Law, and many more.

My only complaint about this book is that the beautiful artwork is not labeled; since most of it looks like the work of historic masters, I found this ommission to be a shame.

The thoughts of the mystics are truly thought-provoking, no matter what your own religious orientation might be. I was struck by how many of these Christian mystics seemed to echo Buddhist and Taoist wisdom in their statements. Many of the mystics express a distrust of, or dissatisfaction with, conventional religion and learning; Marguerite Porete, for example, praises "the sweet country of understanding nothing." This book's beauty and small size make it a perfect gift, and the intriguing quotes may just inspire readers to seek out more substantial books by or about these great mystics.

This brief collection of sayings by Christian mystics shows that there are mystics in the Christian tradition whose spiritual attainment compares to that of the great sages of the East. It is more God-oriented than Jesus-oriented in approach. Terse, powerful sayings that will appeal to seekers from all religious backgrounds.

Allthough a very short book, each phrase contains worlds of thought.Being a muslim myself i see no difference in the understanding of Allah (god) then the Christian saints whos words are quoted (exexpt a few i really didnt understand or did disagree with).You read one phrase and think for pages on end.

Tired of feeding your brain the garbage you see on television and in the movies. This little book with its short, brilliant ideas
is the perfect antidote. Spiritual Wisdom from ancient Christian thinkers gives you healthy food for thought. Stress relief for these difficult times.