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Now available in English for the first time, Ysabel de Andiäs double exploration of Christian and Hindu mysticism provides a valuable addition to the field. Composed from lectures given in Benares in 2015 to priests of the Missions Étrangères de Paris, Mystery of God, Mystery of Christ combines the two main research interests that have defined de Andiäs career: first, an understanding of Christian mysticism as growing out of the Christian mystery of Christ and the sacrament, and secondly, the relationship between this and Hindu contemplative prayer as articulated by Jules Monchanin.
Beginning with the Cappadocian fathers, de Andai traces the developing interpretation of Mystery through Christian thinkers from Origen and Gregory of Nyssa to Basil and Dionysios the Areopagite. From here, she begins to dovetail this study with an exploration of Hindu contemplation, relating the Carmelite mystic St John of the Cross to the Advaitist tradition, especially as expounded by Shankara. Throughout, her masterful understanding of both traditions is apparent. For English readers, her insight will provide a fresh perspective on this lively subject area.
About the author
Ysabel de Andia spent the majority of her theological career as a researcher at the Centre national de la recherche scientifique (CNRS), and has also directed one of its research divisions. Her major works include Homo Vivens, on Irenaeus, Henosis: L'Union à Dieu, on Dionysios the Areopagite, for which she was awarded a Doctorat d'État, and more recently La Voie et le voyageur.
