Summary
First transcribed: Late fourteenth century
Attributed to: “Cloud-author”
Edition used:The Cloud of Unknowing, edited with a preface by Simon Tugwell and an introduction by James Walsh, S.J. New York: Paulist Press, 1981
Genre(s): Nonfiction
Subgenre(s): Didactic treatise; instructional manual; spiritual treatise
Core issue(s): Contemplation; faith; God; love; prayer
The Essence of Contemplation
The Cloud of Unknowing emerges as a multifaceted tapestry of spiritual instruction, primarily directed at a young disciple yearning for deeper connection with the divine. The text, despite its repetitiveness and digressive tendencies, offers profound insight into the practice of contemplative prayer and the spiritual journey. The disciple addressed is characterized by both enthusiasm and a tendency towards overextension, yet is encouraged to embrace the uncertainty inherent in divine pursuit. This treatise reassures readers of the normalcy of feeling helpless in their spiritual quest, urging the surrender to God's will as the ultimate path to divine union. The spiritual father, whose wisdom permeates the text, emphasizes that the journey towards God involves fixing one's love on Him, thereby opening oneself to His presence through contemplation.
Audience and Purpose
The author speaks to those who, beyond engaging in good works, aspire to follow Christ through the depths of contemplation. This group includes individuals who have faithfully observed active Christian life and are now drawn towards a more introspective, contemplative existence. The text delineates two life paths: the active life centered on service and the contemplative life focused on prayer. Both paths, however, require a balance of action and reflection, suggesting that good Christians find themselves navigating between the two, each fulfilling their unique call.
A Journey of Faith and Love
To embark on this contemplative journey, one must possess faith sufficient to perceive the Divine Presence veiled in the "cloud of unknowing." This implies a turning away from sin towards God, driven by a love that persists despite the mysteries of the divine. The author’s guidance is surprisingly less stringent than anticipated, advocating for reconciliation of sins as a preliminary step, followed by fearlessly diving into the work of contemplation. The emphasis lies not on one's past or present flaws but on the genuine desire to seek God. As the text concludes with a passage from Saint Augustine, it suggests that the essence of Christian life is fueled by holy desire, making contemplative prayer accessible to all believers.
Embracing Contemplative Practice
The author acknowledges the diversity of contemplative experiences, cautioning against imposing one's spiritual journey as a universal standard. Contemplative grace can manifest within various life contexts, embracing both the religious and the lay. This openness reinforces the notion that developing the contemplative dimension is crucial for personal fulfillment, enabling the spirit to fully embrace God through love. The transition from active to contemplative life involves a deepening interiority, urging individuals to live more authentically from within.
Contemplation and Community
One common critique of contemplation is its perceived emptiness or quietism, a sentiment echoed by both self-doubt and external skepticism. The author, however, asserts the profound fruitfulness of contemplation. It enriches one's spirit, delights God, and benefits others, including aiding souls in purgatory. This spiritual work, while intangible, yields significant effects on the individual and the wider community. The command of charity is fulfilled, as love extends impartially to all during contemplation, fostering a genuine habit of goodness inspired by the desire to please God.
Practical Guidance for Contemplation
While not exhaustive in its treatment of the spiritual life, the text offers a simple method for contemplative prayer. This involves creating a quiet, relaxed space, focusing solely on God, and using a meaningful word to anchor the...
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mind. The chosen word serves as a focal point, guiding the contemplator beyond distractions, into a deeper connection with God. The author advises against straining the mind, suggesting that the word should remain internal, representing God's fullness. Despite inevitable distractions and difficulties, persistence in this practice promises a profound experience of God's presence.
Christian Themes
At its core, The Cloud of Unknowing is an exhortation to love God above all else through the practice of contemplation. By setting aside worldly distractions and focusing inward, believers are invited to encounter the divine in profound ways. This journey requires faith, a shift from sin to divine love, and a recognition of one's spiritual desires. The text underscores that true fulfillment comes from God alone, who, through grace, enables the spirit’s loving embrace.
Further Reading and Study
- Hodgson, Phyllis, ed. The Cloud of Unknowing and Related Treatises. Analecta Cartusiana 3. Salzburg: University of Salzburg, 1982. This volume provides additional texts associated with the same author, offering broader insights into contemplative prayer.
- Johnston, William. The Mysticism of “The Cloud of Unknowing”. New York: Fordham University Press, 2000. This study compares the teachings of the text with those of other mystics, highlighting its unique place within the mystical tradition.
- Pennington, M. Basil. Centering Prayer: Renewing an Ancient Christian Prayer Form. New York: Doubleday, 2001. This work contextualizes The Cloud of Unknowing within the larger Christian tradition, offering practical insights for modern readers.
- Szarmach, Paul E., ed. An Introduction to the Medieval Mystics of Europe. Albany: State of University of New York Press, 1984. Includes scholarly essays that provide a deep dive into the text's historical and spiritual significance.
