Abstract

As the title indicates, this work includes both an exposition of the mystical theology of John of the Cross and a defense of the cognitive value of mystical experience, with three chapters devoted to each section. The treatment of St. John contains little that will startle students of his work; but the exegesis is balanced and well supported. After an introductory chapter on the man and his writings, a chapter is devoted to his account of human nature, with emphasis on the philosophical psychology. Another chapter treats the stages of the spiritual life. In the latter Payne grapples with apparent conflicts between different texts, particularly with respect to the various "nights," and manages to weave them together into a coherent and unified doctrine.