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by Robin Sharma
The Cloud of Unknowing summary
Anonymous
Brief summary
The Cloud of Unknowing is a spiritual guidebook written by an anonymous Christian mystic. It explores the concept of reaching a deeper union with God through contemplative prayer and the surrender of the intellect.
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Table of Contents
The Cloud of Unknowing
Summary of key ideas
A Journey into Christian Mysticism
In The Cloud of Unknowing, an anonymous Christian mystic provides a guide to contemplative prayer. The book is a practical manual for the aspiring mystic, offering advice on how to move beyond the intellect and into a direct experience of God. The author emphasizes the importance of abandoning the ego and all forms of understanding, deeming them as obstacles to a true union with the divine.
The mystic begins by addressing the reader as a fellow seeker and encourages them to set aside all thoughts and distractions in order to focus on God alone. They introduce the concept of the 'cloud of unknowing' as a metaphor for the mind's inability to comprehend God. The author suggests that we should enter this cloud through a method of contemplative prayer, leaving behind our thoughts and desires in a quest for a direct experience of the divine.
The Practice of Contemplative Prayer
The author then provides detailed instructions on how to practice contemplative prayer. They advise the reader to choose a single, short word, such as 'God' or 'love', as a focal point for their prayer. This word is to be repeated silently and continuously, using it as a tool to anchor the mind and to keep it from wandering. This practice, the author claims, will help the seeker to enter the cloud of unknowing and to experience a profound connection with God.
Moreover, the author emphasizes the importance of perseverance in this practice, even when it seems difficult or unrewarding. They argue that the act of showing up and engaging in the contemplative prayer, regardless of the immediate outcome, is what ultimately leads to spiritual growth and union with God. The mystic also warns against seeking extraordinary experiences, emphasizing instead the value of simple, humble, and consistent prayer.
The Struggle of the Contemplative Life
As the book progresses, the author acknowledges the difficulties and challenges that come with the contemplative life. They discuss the various obstacles, such as restlessness, distractions, and the wandering of the mind, that the seeker is likely to encounter. The mystic encourages the reader to persevere through these challenges, reminding them that even the most revered saints faced similar struggles in their spiritual journeys.
Furthermore, the author addresses the issue of sin and imperfection, urging the seeker not to be discouraged by their failings. Instead, they emphasize the importance of humility and self-awareness, suggesting that acknowledging our faults and weaknesses is a crucial step towards spiritual growth. The mystic also highlights the role of grace, asserting that it is ultimately God's work, not our own, that leads us to union with Him.
Union with God and the End of the Journey
In the final sections of The Cloud of Unknowing, the author describes the ultimate goal of the contemplative life: union with God. They depict this union as a state of profound love and intimacy with the divine, a state in which the boundaries between the individual and God dissolve, and only love remains. The mystic suggests that this union is not something that can be achieved through effort or intellect, but rather something that is given by God as a gift.
In conclusion, The Cloud of Unknowing is a profound exploration of the contemplative aspect of Christian spirituality. It offers practical advice and encouragement for those seeking a deeper, more direct experience of God. The book's message is one of humility, perseverance, and above all, love, as the means to transcend the limitations of human understanding and to enter into union with the divine.
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What is The Cloud of Unknowing about?
The Cloud of Unknowing is a spiritual guidebook that explores the concept of reaching a deeper union with God through contemplation and prayer. Written by an anonymous Christian mystic, it delves into the idea of letting go of our thoughts and knowledge in order to experience the divine presence in a state of unknowing. This profound and thought-provoking book offers insights and practical advice for those seeking a closer connection with the divine.
The Cloud of Unknowing Review
The Cloud of Unknowing (14th century) is a profound spiritual guide that explores the concept of mysticism and contemplative prayer. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Its exploration of divine mystery and union with God provides spiritual seekers with profound insights into the nature of faith and devotion.
- The book encourages introspection and deep reflection, inviting readers to delve into the depths of their spiritual lives.
- With its timeless wisdom on the unknowable aspects of God, it challenges traditional beliefs and offers a fresh perspective on spirituality.
Who should read The Cloud of Unknowing?
Individuals seeking a deeper understanding of Christian spirituality
Those interested in contemplative prayer and meditation
Readers looking for a challenging and thought-provoking exploration of faith
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The Cloud of Unknowing FAQs
What is the main message of The Cloud of Unknowing?
The main message is to seek spiritual union with God through unknowing and love.
How long does it take to read The Cloud of Unknowing?
The estimated reading time varies but typically takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in about 15 minutes.
Is The Cloud of Unknowing a good book? Is it worth reading?
The Cloud of Unknowing is worth reading for its profound teachings on divine love and contemplative prayer.
Who is the author of The Cloud of Unknowing?
The author of The Cloud of Unknowing is Anonymous.
What to read after The Cloud of Unknowing?
If you're wondering what to read next after The Cloud of Unknowing, here are some recommendations we suggest:
- God Is Not Great by Christopher Hitchens
- The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle
- The Art of Happiness by Dalai Lama
- On Being by Peter Atkins
- The Biology of Belief by Bruce H. Lipton
- Buddha’s Brain by Rick Hanson
- Choose Yourself by James Altucher
- Going Clear by Lawrence Wright
- The Power of No by James Altucher and Claudia Azula Altucher
- The Demon-Haunted World by Carl Sagan