That is why St. John of the Cross calls faith a night. With those who have received a Christian education, the lower parts of the soul become attached to these mysteries when they have no right at all to do so. That is why such people need a purification of which St. John of the Cross describes the stages. Atheism and incredulity constitute an equivalent of such a purification.
About this quote
- What does it mean?
- Faith is like a night where the soul must be purified, and atheism can serve as a similar purification process.
- In plain terms
- Faith is like night, and losing belief can also clean the soul.
- What can you take from it?
- Atheism can function as spiritual purification.
Where it applies
Putting it to work
Questions to consider
- Is doubt holy?
- How does faith grow?
Another view
Calling atheism purification may dismiss the distinct nature of losing faith.
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