Inner Dialogue: Meditation in 17th Century France
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Christian Belin, La Conversation intérieure. La Méditation en France au XVIIe siècle
The journal “Archives of Social Sciences of Religions” publishes advanced research on religion in French, English, and Spanish. It studies the sociology of religions and religious traditions or theologies. It is supported by the INSHS-CNRS (“Institut des Sciences Humaines et Sociales”)
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Subtitle: Paris, Honoré Champion, 2002, 422 p. (bibliogr., annexes, index) (coll. « Lumières classiques », 42)
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Daniel-Odon Hurel
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Christian Belin, La Conversation intérieure. La Méditation en France au XVIIe siècle
Year: 2003 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.1182
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The text provides an overview of two significant works: Christian Belin's "La Conversation intérieure. La Méditation en France au XVIIe siècle" and Catherine Benoît's "Corps, jardins, mémoires – Anthropologie du corps et de l’espace à la Guadeloupe." Belin's book explores the evolution of meditation in France during the 17th century, highlighting its theological significance and connection to scriptural interpretation. In contrast, Benoît's study delves into the religious practices in Guadeloupe, focusing on the intersection of Catholicism, Hinduism, and new religious movements, particularly examining the nuances of Guadeloupean Catholicism.
The Evolution of Meditation
One of the central themes in Belin's work is the evolution of meditation as a spiritual practice in 17th century France. Belin elucidates that the foundation of meditation lies in reading and internal contemplation, leading to a reflexive engagement with scripture. He traces the historical roots of meditation back to biblical figures and the practices established during the Middle Ages, which refined meditation and led to a greater accessibility of meditative techniques among laypeople. The author posits that figures like St. Augustine shaped Christian meditation by blending intellectual understanding with deep spiritual engagement, setting the stage for modern practices.
The Role of Religious Texts
Belin also emphasizes the critical role of texts in the meditative practices of the period. He discusses how the writings of notable Christian figures, including Ignatius of Loyola and the Carmelites, contributed to a more structured approach to meditation. These texts not only served as guides for spiritual exercises but also facilitated a communal aspect of meditation, reflecting a broader trend where literary works became instrumental in shaping individual spirituality. The dual relationship between scripture and meditation signifies a dynamic exchange where religious texts inform and enhance the practitioner’s spiritual journey.
The Intersection of Religions in Guadeloupe
Benoît's exploration of religion in Guadeloupe reveals a complex interplay between various religious practices. She identifies three primary religions: Catholicism, which she describes as a "pagan Christianism," Hinduism, and an array of new religious movements. This polytheistic environment allows individuals to move fluidly between different religious practices depending on personal circumstances. Benoît’s analysis sheds light on how inherited traditions mingle with contemporary beliefs, creating a nuanced and hybrid cultural identity among the populace.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both texts offer insightful examinations of the religious landscapes in their respective contexts. Belin's work underscores the historical development of meditation in France, enhancing our understanding of its spiritual significance and methodological evolution. Meanwhile, Benoît's study illustrates the rich tapestry of religious practices in Guadeloupe, highlighting the syncretic nature of belief systems and their cultural implications. Together, these works reveal the intricate connections between religion, cultural identity, and individual spirituality across different historical and geographical settings.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary focus of Christian Belin's book?
Christian Belin's book investigates the role of meditation in 17th-century France, exploring its historical and religious contexts, as well as the evolution of spiritual practices.
What traditions influence meditation as discussed in the book?
The book illustrates how meditation is rooted in biblical traditions and has been shaped by various religious families, including monastic, mystical, and modern methodologies.
How does Belin relate meditation to Christian practices?
Belin discusses how meditation intertwines with prayer, emphasizing the significance of reading and reflecting on scriptures, a practice deeply embedded in Christian spirituality.
What are some authors discussed in relation to meditation?
Key figures mentioned include Ignatius of Loyola, John of the Cross, and Pascal, each contributing to the evolution of meditation and its integration into Christian thought.
What does the second part of the book explore?
The second part examines individual meditants' journeys, illustrating various approaches to meditation and their impact on the periodic spiritual developments within Christianity.
How does the book address the themes of spirituality and mysticism?
The book analyzes the complex relationship between meditation, spirituality, and mysticism, highlighting the evolving theological discourse during the 17th century around contemplative practices.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Inner Dialogue: Meditation in 17th Century France”. The list explains important keywords that occur in this and other scholarly articles. It is also linked to the glossary for understanding that concept in the context of History, Religion, Philosophy, Theology, Sociology etc.
1) 0:
Meditation
2) 1:
Prayer
3) 2:
Spiritual
4) 3:
Religion
5) 4:
Mysticism
6) 5:
Exercise
7) 6:
Faith
8) 7:
Book
9) 8:
Scripture
10) 9:
Women
11) 10:
Paris
12) 11:
Enlightenment
13) 12:
Conversation
14) 13:
Theology
15) 14:
Devotion
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Memory
17) 16:
Pagan
18) 17:
Transformation
19) 18:
Literature
20) 19:
Experience
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Hinduism
22) 21:
Cycle
23) 22:
Human
24) 23:
Anti
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Spiritual life
26) 25:
Ultimate truth
27) 26:
Metaphysics
28) 27:
Communicate
29) 28:
Repression
30) 29:
Discussion
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Reflection
32) 31:
Revolution
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Knowledge
34) 33:
Evolution
35) 34:
Dimension
36) 35:
Stability
37) 36:
Medicine
38) 37:
Merchant
39) 38:
Richness
40) 39:
Dialogue
41) 40:
Dreaming
42) 41:
Rhetoric
43) 42:
Ultimate
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Trinity
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Illness
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Deities
47) 46:
Lineage
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Worship
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Passion
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Sorcery
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Branch
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Nature
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Debate
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Police
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Indian
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Glance
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Market
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Garden
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Golden
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Desire
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Poetry
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Botany
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Cloud
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Death
65) 64:
Heart
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Crime
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Truth
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Space
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Logic
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Realm
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Jacob
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Union
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Hour
74) 73:
Dead
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 148]