Radical Wisdom - by Beverly J Lanzetta (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

Lanzetta illuminates the transformative potential of the classical tradition of women mystics, especially in light of contemporary violence against women around the world. Focusing on the contemplative process as women's journey from oppression to liberation, Lanzetta draws especially on the mysticism of Julian of Norwich and Teresa of Avila. She lays out the contemplative techniques used by mystics to achieve their highest spiritual potential and also investigates how unjust social and political conditions afflict women's souls. Lanzetta identifies a specific historical female mystical path (the via feminina) and draws contemporary conclusions for how women might understand their bodies, their rights, and their ethics.

Review Quotes

"Lanzetta's Radical Wisdom is a feminist revisioning of mysticism. Going beyond both the positive and the negative paths of the mystical journey, Lanzetta proposes a 'via feminina' that can heal the deep spiritual wounds of patriarchy and transform women's inner and outer humanity in holistic relation to others--men and women, God and the cosmos."