Theology of Mystical Experience
Scottish Journal of Theology December 1, 1979 Jürgen Moltmann 3 citations
Mystical theology is better understood as a "wisdom of experience" than a "wisdom of doctrine." It arises from bringing mystical experience into words, though such experience cannot be captured in doctrinal propositions. Consequently, mystical theology always describes the way, journey, or transition toward an ineffable experience of God. While its doctrinal content has often seemed unimpressive, tracing its historical roots—such as Augustinian, Neoplatonic, or gnostic motifs—misses the path of mystical theologians. To share in their experience, one should join them on their journey, for example with Bernard of Clairvaux on the "ladder of love" or Bonaventura on the "pilgrimage of the soul to God."