Mystics, Prophets, Heretics

3 Credits · Level: Undergraduate

Studying some controversial “mystics” of the Christian tradition, this course explores the mystical dimension of political and liberation theologies and their precarious relationship with conventional religious belief. Beginning with challenging the general understanding of “mysticism” as a private, individual, and interior experience of the Divine, we will discuss 1) why mysticism could be of critical importance to society or the wider Church, 2) how the mystical endeavor for “justice” could be misled, misrepresented, and manipulated, and 3) how these three mystics could help us reflect on some of the vexing concerns of our time, such as racism, gender, sexuality, ecological crisis, nationalism, immigration, totalitarianism, and resistance to injustice. This class will focus on critical and self-reflective use of primary sources, as well as small and large group class discussions. Students are encouraged to incorporate any perspectives and practices that may enrich their own interest in and passion for their academic and spiritual journey.