Another example of art being used as a better form of communication for mystics would be Joachim of Fiore translating his complex Trinitarian theology of history into a series of elaborate diagrams(called figurae), which “present the relation between the Trinity and humanity’s growing mastery of contemplation” (McGinn, 133). Henry Suso, a fourteenth century friar and writer, was also interested in the concept of “using images to cast out images in the path to union with God”, and commissioned multiple pieces for his mystical treatises, the Exemplar (133). In the final chapter, he illustrates an artwork showing how “the soul comes forth from the hidden divine abyss through the action of the Trinity and finally flows back again through the three persons into the darkness of God” (133).
Icons helped mystics record important events or spiritual moments in their life. “Through artistic means, the icon communicates the essential doctrines of Christianity of the Holy …show more content…
At the core, mystics desired a deeper connection with God, believing that this spiritual intimacy would also lead to a better understanding of themselves. Equally important however, was their involvement in the community and creating strong connections with others, as it helped greatly to “revealed the divine life in himself”. And although the presence of religious art was disputed and rejected in many cases, it too aided mystics in their divine life through icons and depictions of their beliefs. In mysticism, reaching the goal is important, but what is truly emphasized is the journey to get there. It is because the process is so intimate and appealing to people that it has lasted so long, and will continue to last so long as religion itself is
Icons helped mystics record important events or spiritual moments in their life. “Through artistic means, the icon communicates the essential doctrines of Christianity of the Holy …show more content…
At the core, mystics desired a deeper connection with God, believing that this spiritual intimacy would also lead to a better understanding of themselves. Equally important however, was their involvement in the community and creating strong connections with others, as it helped greatly to “revealed the divine life in himself”. And although the presence of religious art was disputed and rejected in many cases, it too aided mystics in their divine life through icons and depictions of their beliefs. In mysticism, reaching the goal is important, but what is truly emphasized is the journey to get there. It is because the process is so intimate and appealing to people that it has lasted so long, and will continue to last so long as religion itself is