Illuminating the Way

This book about embracing the wisdom of monks and mystics is arranged in 12 chapters according to archetypes that the author associates with various historical figures. She draws on the work of Jung, is not only for archetypes, but also in terms of the shadow and the use of mandalas. Some people selected are better known than others - Francis of Assisi as the fool, King David as the sovereign, Hildegard as the visionary and Thomas Merton as the monk. Then there is also the fourth century Amma Syncletica as the warrior and Brigid of Kildare as the healer. Interestingly, St Benedict is the sage, and there is a beautiful reflection about the search for wisdom and truth. Rilke embodies the quest of the artist, while Dorothy Day stands for the orphan. Perhaps the most important point is the author's encouragement to acknowledge the multiplicity within ourselves represented by these archetypes. Each chapter also has a beautiful icon with an accompanying quotation as well as material for reflection. At the end there our instructions on contemplative reading – lectio divina, which the author and her husband practise on a daily basis; he also provides the corresponding biblical passages and reflections. To enter deeply into these archetypes is to make a corresponding inner journey.