Simone Weil and Abhishiktananda: The Mystical Journeys
Publication Type |
Book Chapter |
Year of Publication |
1998 |
Author |
|
Book |
An Ethnography of Mysticism: The Narratives of Abhishiktananda: a French Monk in India |
Pages |
40 - 54 |
Publisher |
Indian Institute of Advanced Study |
Place Published |
Shimla |
Language |
English |
Keywords |
Abhishiktananda |
Annotation |
Visvanathan contrasts Abhishiktananda and Weil, 'a French contemporary' so as to develop a better understanding of Abhishiktananda's thought. She argues both were "preoccupied with the gnostic quest" (p. 41) and notes other points of similarity in their mysticism, in their discussion of the 'the presence of God', their nationality, and their position between 'two domains of thought', and two world wars. She notes differences in gender, occupation, interests and philosophy. She goes on to argue both were concerned with the relationship between God and humanity, as well as the idea of love, work and society. Visvanathan next compares what she calls a representative text from each: Abhishiktananda's Saccidananda and Weil's essay "Oppression and Liberty" comparing them so as to better understand their respective choice of path. She next looks at Weil's 1933 essay "Prospects" and her discussion of "fascism, war and human liberty" (p. 43), and at Weil's decision to remain outside of the Christian church. She briefly reflects on Weil's ideas about affliction, language and 'waiting on God'. |