Esoteric Themes in Jesuit Science and History in France (1680-1764)
Journal name: Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions
Original article title: Bernard Barthet, Science, histoire et thématiques ésotériques chez les Jésuites en France (1680-1764)
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: Bibliographie (sources imprimées et études), index. Préface de Jean-Pierre BrachPessac, Presses universitaires de Bordeaux, coll. « Identités religieuses », 2012, 560 p.
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Jean-Pierre Laurant
Archives De Sciences Sociales Des Religions:
(Founded in 1956 and published quarterly”)
Full text available for: Bernard Barthet, Science, histoire et thématiques ésotériques chez les Jésuites en France (1680-1764)
Year: 2013 | Doi: 10.4000/assr.25164
Copyright (license): © Archives de sciences sociales des religions
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Bernard Barthet's work, Science, History, and Esoteric Themes among the Jesuits in France (1680-1764), published in 2012, delves into the intricate interplay between science, history, and esotericism during the Jesuit period in France. Through this research, which originated as a thesis at the École pratique des hautes études, Barthet contributes to the renewed historiography of the Jesuit order and their strategies for intellectual engagement during a time of considerable scientific advancement and religious controversy. The preface by Jean-Pierre Brach highlights the significance of this examination in understanding how the Jesuits sought to reclaim influence in the wake of post-Tridentine debates.
The Role of Esotericism in Jesuit Strategy
One crucial concept discussed in Barthet’s work is the Jesuits’ use of esoteric themes as part of their intellectual strategy. The Jesuits did not adopt esotericism for its own sake; rather, they selectively employed it to counter perceived threats to the Church's authority and to support their positions in broader societal debates. Barthet outlines how figures like Athanase Kircher and Gaspard Schott influenced the incorporation of esoteric elements such as alchemy, Kabbalah, and natural magic into their pedagogical efforts. This was particularly evident in their reactions to Cartesian materialism and their exploration of mystical traditions, which served as tools for grappling with scientific advancements and theological challenges of the time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Barthet’s exploration reveals how the Jesuits navigated the delicate relationship between emerging scientific thought, religious doctrine, and esoteric beliefs. By integrating various esoteric themes into their educational framework, they aimed to maintain relevance and assert control over intellectual discourse in an era marked by rapid change. The work not only sheds light on Jesuit strategies in the 17th and 18th centuries but also offers insights that resonate with contemporary discussions surrounding the dynamics of faith and science, highlighting the enduring complexities of these interactions.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the primary focus of Bernard Barthet's work?
Bernard Barthet's work examines the Jesuits' strategies to address scientific advancements and their use of esoteric themes in the context of religious debates in France between 1680 and 1764.
How did the Jesuits approach esoteric themes according to Barthet?
The Jesuits selectively utilized esoteric themes to support the Church’s positions, aiming to counter threats they perceived, while also employing experimental methods and engaging with various philosophical debates of their time.
What role did the Journal de Trévoux play in Jesuit efforts?
The Journal de Trévoux was instrumental for the Jesuits, utilizing prominent writers to promote true knowledge and engage in societal debates, thereby reinforcing the Jesuits’ pedagogical and theological strategies in a changing scientific landscape.
Glossary definitions and references:
Theological and religious glossary list for “Esoteric Themes in Jesuit Science and History in France (1680-1764)”. 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) Religion:
Religion played a significant role among the Jesuits in reclaiming minds and engaging in societal debates, integrating knowledge of esoteric themes to reinforce Church positions amidst scientific progress. Their religious identity shaped their pedagogical approach.
2) Nature:
Nature was a central theme in the Jesuit discourse, with the Society attempting to define its characteristics scientifically. The study of nature, including ideas of subtle matter and vacuum, illustrated their commitment to merging scientific inquiry with religious belief.
3) Science (Scientific):
The scientific approach adopted by the Jesuits reflected their desire to engage with modern ideas while defending their faith. They navigated between embracing scientific advancements and countering materialism that threatened their spiritual teachings.
4) Debate:
The debates among the Jesuits centered on reconciling science and faith, addressing societal issues like Cartesianism and Jansenism. Their engagement highlighted the tension and discourse around scientific discovery and religious doctrine.
5) Magic:
Magic, particularly the distinction between natural magic and goetia, was a nuanced topic for the Jesuits. They approached it from a perspective of exploring divine wisdom while being cautious about its implications for faith and morality.
6) Knowledge:
Knowledge acquisition was key for Jesuits as they sought to integrate contemporary scientific understanding with religious ideologies, aiming to create a coherent narrative that supported their theological arguments and pedagogical methods.
7) Fight:
The fight for true knowledge characterized the Jesuit mission. They employed various strategies, including pedagogical tools like theater and literature, to combat perceived threats to their religious convictions and the Catholic faith.
8) Speculation:
Speculation played a role in how Jesuits interpreted esoteric themes, mathematics, and ancient philosophies. They leveraged speculative thought to bridge gaps between ancient wisdom and contemporary religious understandings.
9) Materialism (Materialist):
Materialism was a significant concern for the Jesuits, who opposed the reductionist views presented by Cartesian philosophy. Their discourse aimed to counter such philosophies and present a more integrated worldview that included spirituality.
10) Pythagoras:
Pythagoras represented a lineage of ancient thought the Jesuits re-examined to construct theological frameworks. They connected his ideas to esoteric themes and their quest for universal knowledge that aligned with Christian teachings.
11) Initiation:
[see source text or glossary: Initiation]
12) Mythology:
Mythology was utilized by the Jesuits to create narratives that aligned with Christian morality. They probed ancient myths, formulating a discourse that contextualized them within biblical history and integrated new discoveries.
13) Existence:
The existence of subtle matter and the nature of vacuum were critical topics that the Jesuits engaged with scientifically, seeking to address profound questions that linked their faith with observational and experimental inquiry.
14) Language:
[see source text or glossary: Language]
15) Exercise:
The Ignatian exercises represented practices aimed at spiritual discipline among the Jesuits. These exercises were critical in aligning their educational pursuits with faith and morality, fostering a deep engagement with God.
16) Rhetoric (Rhetorical):
Rhetoric was a powerful tool for the Jesuits, particularly in using emblems and debates to articulate complex ideas. Their skillful rhetorical strategies were essential in promoting their religious narratives and engaging audiences.
17) Treasure:
[see source text or glossary: Treasure]
18) Oedipus:
Oedipus is referenced in the context of Jesuit interest in hieroglyphs and ancient wisdom. The Jesuits drew on such narratives to enhance their theological arguments and illustrate connections between myth and revelation.
19) Wisdom:
Wisdom, particularly divine wisdom, was central to the Jesuit understanding of nature and the cosmos. The pursuit of wisdom through scientific inquiry was seen as a path to deeper faith and understanding of God's creation.
20) Powder:
The Powder of Sympathy described by Digby exemplified early thoughts on magnetism. Jesuits cautiously explored the concept of sympathy as a natural phenomenon, balancing scientific inquiry with traditional religious views on the supernatural.
21) Emblem:
Emblems served as a rhetorical device for the Jesuits, aiding in the transmission of complex themes and theological ideas, often bridging gaps between ancient wisdom and contemporary interpretations in their religious education.
22) China:
China was significant in the Jesuit exploration of knowledge, particularly in their efforts to integrate understandings of ancient texts with Christian theology. Jesuit missions sought to harmonize Chinese knowledge with their religious objectives.
23) Faith:
Faith was critical to the Jesuit mission, underpinning their strategies in pedagogy and societal engagement. They aimed to defend and promote Catholic doctrine while navigating the challenges posed by scientific advancements.
24) Anti (Amti):
Anti-Platonism was a viewpoint the Jesuits contested, seeking to preserve the intellectual contributions of the past against criticisms that detracted from their theological foundations and the integration of esoteric knowledge.
25) Lead:
To lead in education and intellectual debates, the Jesuits asserted their roles as scholars and educators. Their scholarship aimed to guide discussions and beliefs in ways that aligned with Catholic teachings.
26) Mind:
The Jesuits focused on reclaiming minds through education and discourse, engaging intellectual challenges with the aim of shaping understanding and preserving faith against materialistic perspectives.
27) Face (Facing, Faced):
[see source text or glossary: Face]