The Cloud of Unknowing

by Anonymous, James Walsh, Evelyn Underhill, et al.

Book Overview

Widely considered a hallmark of Western literature and spirituality, The Cloud of Unknowing is an anonymous English monk's sublime expression of what separates God from humanity. Originally written in the 14th century, now part of the HarperCollins Spiritual classics series, this beautiful contemplative resource, has been embraced for hundreds of years for its simple, engaging style and spiritual truths. As the unknown author assures us, "if you are...

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0060737751
• ISBN13: 9780060737757
• Release Date: September 2009
• Publisher: HarperOne
• Length: 176 Pages
• Weight: 0.40 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.4" x 5.3" x 8.1"

Customer Reviews

Fine study edition of the Cloud

The Cloud of Unknowing is a mystical tract from 14th century England, probably written by a Carthusian monk for a young novice. The work is about contemplative prayer and the mystical union with God through the path of via negativa, or letting go of all concepts, images and ideas of God and creatures and approaching God's bare essence or Being which is veiled in mysterious darkness. This work is one of the finest works of mystical contemplation ever composed, and contains beautiful advice and wisdom relevant to modern contemplatives. This edition also contains a valuable introduction to the Cloud which attempts to reconcile the Cloud author's theology with that of Thomism. While the Cloud author knew Thomism, intellectual theology was not so much his concern (though he is clearly aware of it through Thomas, Richard of St Victor, and Denys the Aeropagite) but mystical union with God. This is what makes the work so powerful spiritually, as does the author's obvious deep experience of the spiritual life.