In nearly one hundred selections spanning seventeen centuries, The Essential Writings of Christian Mysticism explores how human life is transformed through the search for direct contact with God. Uniquely organized by subject, the volume includes accessible headnotes for each section, biographical sketches, and a selected bibliography. Part one examines the preparation for encountering God through biblical interpretation and prayer; the second part focuses on the mystics' actual encounters with God; and part three addresses the implications of the mystical life, showing how mystics have been received over time, and how they practice their faith through private contemplation and public actions.
