Obedience, Love, and Suffering
The Mysticism of Ordinary Life January 26, 2023 DOI: 10.1093/oso/9780192866967.003.0003 (opens in new tab)
Study at a glance
AI-extracted from the abstract| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Key points | Argues that Balthasar's and Speyr's mystical theology, despite its gender essentialism and problematic elements, can be constructively appropriated by feminists for its gender-inclusive and gender-fluid hagiography, and that their controversial arguments on mystical obedience, marriage, and suffering can be reformulated to avoid patriarchy and oppression. |
Abstract
Abstract This chapter offers a constructive feminist reading of mystical theological texts by an influential Catholic theologian of the twentieth century (Balthasar) and the lay contemplative woman who was central to much of his work (Speyr). It embraces feminist critiques of their gender essentialism and certain problematic aspects of their relationship, while proposing a feminist appropriation of their gender-inclusive and gender-fluid hagiography. It scrutinizes their controversial arguments for mystical obedience to the Word of God, mystical marriage between Christ and the soul, and mystical participation in Christ’s suffering and death, while suggesting ways in which these arguments may be reformulated to avoid patriarchy and other kinds of oppression.