The Great Books
Episode 368: 'Dark Night of the Soul' by St. John of the Cross
Apr 15, 2025
In this engaging discussion, Silvina Sironi, an artist and translator at the Word on Fire Institute, delves into St. John of the Cross's 'Dark Night of the Soul.' She shares insights into the mystical journey of the soul towards God, examining the interplay of darkness and enlightenment in spirituality. Silvina also explores its impact on art, notably Salvador Dali's work, contrasting it with traditional representations. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embracing internal struggles for spiritual growth, offering a hopeful perspective on our transformative journeys.
35:00
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Quick takeaways
- St. John of the Cross illustrates the soul's transformative journey towards God through mystical imagery of darkness and purgation.
- The poem emphasizes that spiritual growth often involves grappling with doubt and confusion, echoing universal struggles in faith.
Deep dives
Understanding The Dark Night of the Soul
The poem The Dark Night of the Soul by St. John of the Cross represents a profound depiction of the soul's journey towards union with God. It describes a process of purgation, where the soul must let go of non-divine elements to fully embrace divine light. This journey is not characterized by despair, but rather a necessary darkness that signifies spiritual growth. The poem is steeped in mysticism, echoing themes from earlier works, such as The Cloud of Unknowing, underscoring its position within a broader tradition of spiritual literature.
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