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Document Details : Title: The Moth and the Fire Subtitle: A Reappraisal of Levinas' Thought on Mysticism and Suffering Author(s): FONTI, Diego , BAUDAGNA, Rodrigo Journal: Studies in Spirituality Volume: 32 Date: 2022-2023 Pages: 129-152 DOI: 10.2143/SIS.32.0.3292456 Abstract : A suspicion runs though Levinas’ interpretation of mysticism and suffering: they both can be understood as a movement towards an absorbing totality, where subjectivity is lost and pain is justified in view of a greater reality. Several sources are at the root of this interpretation: a reception of Jewish Modernity, a critique of Hegel’s mediation and totalization, and a particular understanding of Christian spirituality. In this essay, we will first reconstruct two possible Jewish sources at the root of Levinas’ mistrust of mysticism. Second, we will analyze the structure of mysticism and suffering in Levinasian philosophy, showing at the same time his critique as well as their structural connection with the origin of human subjectivity. Finally, we will attempt to show that beyond Levinas’ suspicions – and concrete historical experiences or spiritualities that support his position – there is also an alternative view. In this view, key elements of mysticism are to be found in Levinas’ own philosophy and provide for a renewed view of spirituality, avoiding the dangers that Levinas cautions. |
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