The Foundations of Mysticism: Origins to the Fifth Century: 1 (PRESENCE OF GOD: A HISTORY OF WESTERN CHRISTIAN MYSTICISM) - Softcover

Now available in paperback, this is the first volume of the highly-praised landmark trilogy The Presence of God: A History of Western Christian Mysticism. A book to be treasured. --Spiritual Life A truly magnificent book. It seems set to become a much-needed standard study of Western Christian mysticism. --The Way

A truly magnificent book. It seems set to become a much-needed standard study of Western Christian mysticism. --The Way

In this first volume of the highly-acclaimed Presence of God series, Bernard McGinn explores the origins of Christian mysticism, from early Jewish apocalyptic writings to pre-Christian Greek contemplative thought; the New Testament witnesses; early Greek Patristic thought; and the contribution of early monastic practice. In Part 2, McGinn discusses Western Christian mysticism proper, with special attention to Augustine of Hippo. Of special interest is the now-influential appendix, which reviews various theoretical approaches to mysticism.